Fight to keep brewery open has failed, MP says

An MP fighting to stop the closure of Banks's Brewery, said he hoped the decision to shut it could be reversed, but the company has said the closure will go ahead.

Wolverhampton West MP Warinder Juss called a meeting with Carlsberg Marston bosses over its announcement the brewery would shut in autumn 2025 with the loss of 114 jobs.

The brewery, which marks its 150th anniversary next year, would be a "massive loss" to the city's identity, he said.

The firm said it would undergo a consultation process with affected staff and will engage with the union.

Mr Juss told BBC Radio WM: "My first question was whether the decision could be reversed but unfortunately the company said it will still be going ahead with it.

"It's very sad, very unfortunate. The brewery means a lot to the city in terms of its historical, cultural and industrial heritage. It'spart of Wolverhampton's identity."

Banks's Brewery has been operating in Wolverhampton since 1875. The firm previously said the decision was made as part of a restructuring of the wider Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company (CMBC).

"The company is willing to engage with everyone concerned - they realise its very shocking and devastating news for people in Wolverhampton to take", he added.

The firm said it would maintain a presence on the site, with no current plans to sell.

Mr Juss said: "I grew up smelling hops - it's a massive loss. I'm trying now to do whatever I possibly can for the workers and city."

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