25 new jobs as firm re-opens

Rohm and Haas in Heckmondwike Road, Dewsbury Moor, was badly affected in 2009 when demand for its paint products plummeted.

In April 2009, the company was acquired by the The Dow Chemical Company and in July the factory’s bosses decided to cease production.

But as the economy started to show signs of recovery over the last 18 months, demand for the firm’s products once again increased, prompting bosses to look at re-opening the plant.

General manager for Dow UK, Ireland and Nordic, Keith Wiggins, said: “Several options were explored and after much consideration it was agreed that to restart the Dewsbury facility was the most suitable.

“The restart will create approximately 25 new jobs in the first instance and the recruitment process is currently under way, with a view to having the site operational by June.

“Leading the site will be Colin Scattergood. Colin has a wealth of production and site management experience and was site leader at Dewsbury prior to its closure.”

Mr Scattergood, said he was thrilled to be heading up the operation.

“It was a very pleasant surprise and I had absolutely no hesitation in coming back,” he said.

“People will have seen activity at the site for the last few months as we’ve been working to get the site up and running again.”

Mr Scattergood, who started work with the company in 2001, said he was pleased to be welcoming back some old faces.

“We have recruited a combination of former staff and new staff,” he added.

“We wanted some experience with a blend of new blood so I think we’ve got a good mix.