MP’s anger at DWP “snub” to Warrington

THE Department of Work and Pensions has taken a “policy” decision to move its IT support out of Warrington.
It will relocate to Manchester when the lease runs out on its current premises at Birchwood – despite the borough council offering to help them find alternative premises in the borough.
Warrington North MP Helen Jones (pictured) has expressed her dismay at what she describes as a “snub” for Warrington.
In a parliamentary question she asked the minister what assessment had been made of the merits of relocating operations to Warrington. The minister replied by promoting Manchester as the preferred option.
Ms Jones said: “This is a real snub to Warrington by the DWP. It already operates from Warrington and the council was keen to help find other suitable premises once its current lease in Birchwood expires.
“The council is concerned about the possible loss of over 300 talented individuals with many skilled jobs being moved out of Warrington.
“The decision is further flawed given that I understand the broadband speeds of the proposed location in Manchester are not good.
“It seems to me that, yet again, those in government think ‘Manchester’ when they think of the North West. Frankly, it is not the only place in the region and Warrington offers really good options for projects such as these. The DWP already operate in our town and it is a disgrace that they have snubbed us in this way.”