MP warns of potential closure of Smedley Hydro

Patrick Hurley has written to Nick Thomas-Symonds in a letter that alludes to the potential closure of Smedley Hydro.

The site, home to the General Register Office for England and Wales, is one of the town’s largest employers.

OTS News has contacted Patrick Hurley and the Cabinet Office for comment.

Mr Hurley’s letter reads: “I am writing regarding the proposed closure of the Smedley Hydro site, by the Government Property Agency. The Smedley Hydro site is one of the largest single employment sites in my constituency.

“This site is of significant value to both the local community and the local economy in Southport, the majority of those employed on this site are my constituents. I’m concerned about the way this was communicated to staff with no clear picture of their future. The site is currently home to The General Register Office, HMPO, Home Office and NHS Digital staff. If this site was to leave Southport many employees would have to leave their roles.

“The Smedley Hydro has housed government employees continuously since the Second World War, the site is of significant historical value to the people of Southport.

“I would ask that the Government Property Agency explore every opportunity to keep this site open and to keep these jobs in Southport rather than relocate them due to the potential harm this will cause.

“I would be grateful if you could meet with me to discuss the future of this site and keeping these jobs in Southport.”