REDUNDANCIES have started to be announced at Next's warehouse in Bradford.

As reported by the Telegraph & Argus last November, retail giant Next is planning to close its Toftshaw Lane warehouse between the start of August and the end of September - affecting nearly 800 jobs. 

The T&A understands more than 100 redundancies have so far been announced at the site.

An affected employee told us that staff had been offered the chance to relocate to other sites, including at South Elmsall, north of Doncaster, but they said "many" of their colleagues are unable to drive to get there.

Next did not wish to provide an on-the-record comment when approached by the T&A.

Last November, the firm said: "It is with sadness that we announce the proposed closure of our warehouse at Toftshaw Lane in Bradford.

"The closure is necessary in order to consolidate our returns processing operation into the new Online fulfilment facility being developed in South Elmsall.

"We anticipate the closure will take place in around nine months time, between the beginning of August and end of September 2024.

"We are consulting with everyone affected along with USDAW/SATA, our recognised Trade Union."

One of the main reasons the move is taking place is because the Bradford warehouse requires "significant maintenance and investment over the coming years, including a full replacement of its roof," according to Next.

The major retailer said the site would be forced to completely shut and staff would have to relocate while the work took place - and would come at a "considerable cost".

At the time, Next said it anticipated it would have enough vacancies for those affected in Bradford, with the majority of opportunities at the new site in South Elmsall.

The spokesperson said: "However, we also recognise that some employees will be unable to relocate and their role may become redundant.

"We will therefore assist in helping employees find roles outside of the Next Group, which will include the provision of an on-site ‘job shop’ where we will support employees with skills such as interviewing and CV writing, as well as inviting onto site local employers who are actively recruiting."

Next said the move would also allow the company to offer an improved service and reduce its distribution arm's environmental impact.

The spokesperson said: "This has not been an easy decision, and we appreciate this announcement will be difficult for our team at Toftshaw as there are people across the site who have worked for us for many years.

"We would like to thank everyone in advance for their usual dedication and support as we work together over the following months to ensure as smooth a transition as possible, but also, so that everyone on site receives the relevant help and assistance in finding alternative employment either within or outside of Next."