Automotive firm creates 300 new jobs in Sunderland

The new factory is expected to open by the end of the year

A leading global automotive company is creating 300 new jobs at a new multi-million pound manufacturing facility in Sunderland.

Lear Corporation is basing its first UK foam manufacturing facility at Rainton Bridge Industrial Estate.

It will initially supply seating foam to support vehicle production at Sunderland's Nissan plant.

City council leader Paul Watson said he was "delighted" with the announcement.

He said: "The decision will create more than 300 skilled job opportunities in the long-term for the city... strengthening the city's automotive manufacturing sector.

"I'm delighted that one of the world's leading automotive component companies has chosen to locate its first UK manufacturing facility in Sunderland. "

'Opening opportunities'

The move follows more than 18 months of talks between Lear and the city council.

Lear president Gideon Jewel said: "The 300 new jobs are planned in two phases over the next three years, opening opportunities for local people to be part of a world-leading company."

Lear, based in the US, designs, engineers and manufactures automotive products in 35 countries around the globe - employing 93,000 people.

The new factory is expected to open by the end of the year.