Toyota drives vote of confidence for Derbyshire

We've welcomed a decision by car manufacturer Toyota to build its new Auris model at its factory in Burnaston as a boost for the Derbyshire economy.

The announcement from the Japanese firm, which has been manufacturing cars at Burnaston on the outskirts of Derby for 25 years, is expected to secure jobs at the plant for at least the next six years.

It marks the 20th anniversary of our twinning arrangement with Toyota City − a long-standing relationship which has forged strong employment, education, cultural and tourism links between the two regions.

Our Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, Councillor Tony King said:

"Derbyshire has a long-standing relationship with Toyota City and this latest announcement is fantastic news not only for the company and the many Derbyshire residents that work there but for the county as a whole.

"It's a massive boost for the local supply chain that supports major global businesses such as Toyota, Rolls Royce and JCB and an opportunity for smaller Derbyshire businesses to benefit from Toyota opening its order book for the supply of services, parts and components."

Toyota is due to unveil the new-look Auris at the Geneva Motor Show next week with production expected to start at the end of the year.

Councillor King added:

"Making this announcement pre-Brexit shows massive confidence in the growing local economy and further cements Derbyshire's world-renowned position at the heart of the UK automotive and aerospace industry.

"By committing to continue doing business in Derbyshire, blue chip companies such as Toyota are demonstrating to other global investors that this area is a first-class choice for major business to thrive and succeed."