Yodel have written to the Shaw Ward Councillors informing them that they are looking to relocate within the next five years from the Shaw site to a ‘super hub’. Yodel has advised Councillors that this would still be within the North West.  They have also made a company commitment to protect the current workforce and expand job opportunities. 

Councillor Chris Gloster stated: “This news was not unexpected.  Although home shopping is on the increase, sadly old cotton mills are quickly becoming unsuitable for modern logistical operations.  However, Yodel is an integral part of the Shaw community and the company employs many people from our community.”   

“As local Councillors, we welcome the invitation that Yodel have offered us to work with them to look at how best to protect the existing work force, as well as create further job opportunities.  The challenge will be to keep Yodel local to protect as many existing jobs as possible and to provide more new jobs for residents in Shaw and Crompton.” 

“Amongst other locations, a move to Kingsway Business Park at Milnrow would be ideal.  This is still local to Shaw and Crompton, and accessible by Metrolink.  This option would preserve jobs whilst taking many large goods vehicles off Shaw’s roads.  The heavy traffic is certainly something that many of our residents will not miss.” 

Councillor Gloster added:  “We will meet with Yodel as soon as possible to discuss in detail their plans and to offer them as much assistance as possible to ensure jobs are protected and to ensure this redevelopment enhances job prospects for Shaw residents rather than being a devastating blow to the community and more widely”.