Joint agreement signed to develop Michelin site in Dundee

The tyre manufacturer confirmed earlier this month that it is to cease tyre production at the site in 2020 due to “structural market changes”.

A declaration to be signed by the end of the year will see the Scottish Government and Michelin work in partnership to transform the site into a key location for new economic and employment opportunities.

Steve Dunlop, chief executive of Scottish Enterprise, who compiled the Scottish Government’s proposition to Michelin, will lead the work.

Michelin has also appointed Jerome Monsaingeon as the company’s project leader for the partnership on the future of the Michelin site in Dundee.

Economy secretary Derek Mackay said: “Michelin has confirmed that, despite the offers of further Scottish Government support, structural market changes mean that the continued manufacturing of tyres at the Dundee site is not viable and that tyre production will therefore cease in 2020.

“Our shared aim is now to secure a long-term future for the site and to generate significant employment there. I am pleased that Michelin have agreed to work in partnership with the Scottish Government, Scottish Enterprise, Dundee City Council and other partners to develop the next phase of their presence in Scotland, including the skills and the capacity of their workforce.”

John Reid, factory manager at Michelin Dundee, said: “This is a really positive outcome. Everyone involved in this partnership will work extremely hard to transform the Michelin site. We will channel our shared values and priorities to create a significant number of jobs and we will develop a facility that will benefit the economy of Dundee and beyond. In parallel with this work, Michelin will be supporting employees and doing everything we can to help them find the best outcomes possible.”