A CHEMICALS and engineering company revealed that 28 jobs will go in the county under plans to close down its battery research activities.

The jobs will go at Johnson Matthey’s Battery Technology Centre in Milton Park, near Didcot. They are among about 400 job losses nationwide as the firm winds down its battery materials business.

The firm, which describes itself as “a global leader in sustainable technologies” – including batteries for electric cars – put the division up for sale in November, saying it was unable to compete with alternative technologies and larger, lower cost manufacturers. It said it had been unable to strike a deal, despite talks with a number of possible buyers.

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Herald Series: Milton Park

A spokesperson said: “We’re in active talks to sell parts of the battery materials business with a number of companies, and we are working with them to define the scope of their interest.

“There will also be a redeployment programme to offer colleagues other opportunities within JM.”

The site at Milton Park only opened last year.

Didcot Mayor, Mocky Khan, said: “I am sorry to hear that Battery Technology Centre is closing which will cause job losses for Didcot residents. This will be challenging times with the cost of living increasing dramatically so I hope the employees can get new roles very quickly or can be redeployed within Johnson Matthey.

“The business is focussed on sustainable technologies and producing more efficient batteries for cars, these are all very important for our climate. Therefore, I hope Milton Park can attract similar businesses that help to improve our environment.”

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