20 new jobs as Portadown firm Dawson Manufacturing and Engineering gets planning permission for £8m expansion

The firm, which is based at Carn Industrial Estate, already employs 40 people and, with its expansion plans agreed, is hopeful of more growth in the future.

Upper Bann MLA Jonathan Buckley said: “I am delighted to learn that Dawson Manufacturing and Engineering have received planning permission for a major expansion to their facility at Carn Industrial Estate.

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"This expansion is one of many exciting and ambitious projects undertaken by local companies in recent weeks. Dawson’s are well established in their manufacturing of bespoke stainless steel and I am excited to see them grow and innovate in a competitive industry.

"As DUP spokesperson for the Economy and Business, I recently paid visit to Dawson Manufacturing and Engineering to see first the work they are undertaking, and to speak with staff and apprentices about their experiences.

"Dawson’s already boast a workforce of 40 people, and it is fantastic that this planning approval will contribute another 20 jobs to the local economy. I wish them the very best as they continue to grow and develop.”

Sinn Féin's John O'Dowd described the engineering firm’s news that it had secured planning permission to develop a new factory in Portadown as 'great news'.

The MLA said: "It is more positive news for the local economy, workers and families that Dawson Manufacturing and Engineering plan for its new facility to be built within the Charlestown Road industrial estate. The move will create another 20 to 25 jobs as part of an investment of between £8m and £10m.

"Currently employing around 40 people, the engineering firm envisages that a new state-of-the-art factory will enable further growth and facilitate the development of new products.

"This latest jobs and new factory announcement follows quickly on the heels of other substantial investments in the Upper Bann area. The rise in investments contradicts those who tell us the protocol is damaging the economy and we are at a disadvantage. The reality is clear to see in the new factories being built right here in Upper Bann."