Bishopbriggs Aviva’s ‘reckless’ decision raised in Scottish Parliament

The issue has been raised in the Scottish Parliament by MSP for West of Scotland Neil Bibby through a Parliamentary Question. Labour representatives say they are calling on the Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise to fully understand the impact of the decision on Bishopbriggs.

Both politicians said whilst at present no redundancies are due to be made, the decision to relocate 1,200 jobs still has significant ramifications for the workforce as well as the local economy.

Councillor Moir has previously said the distance between the present and new site is “not an easy commute” for many workers in order to keep their jobs.

The decision to relocate has been described as “reckless” and a “big blow” to the 
local economy amid a national jobs crisis.

Councillor Alan Moir said: “East Dunbartonshire and Bishopbriggs has been a good partner to Aviva for over 15 years and it is extremely disappointing they have not explored with East Dunbartonshire Council or Scottish Enterprise about ways they could stay in our community.

“Many workers are concerned about the impact this move will have on them commuting to and from their work. Aviva have so far failed to answer the important questions about how they will address concerns about transport and other issues.

“I am pleased that Neil Bibby MSP has raised this in the Scottish Parliament with the Business Minister. The Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise must do all they can to protect jobs and put pressure on Aviva to think again.”

Neil Bibby MSP for West Scotland added: “Scotland and the UK is facing a jobs crisis and Aviva’s plans to relocate 1,200 jobs is a big blow to the East Dunbartonshire economy.

“While Aviva are stating their decision to move will not result in any redundancies, there will still be a potentially big impact on the workforce and the local economy.

“I am very concerned. There are practical implications for workers particularly around the difficulties and extra cost of a longer commute.

“The Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise must actively engage with Aviva and East Dunbartonshire Council to understand the full impact on local workers and the local economy before this move is finalised.”