ATTEMPTS to secure the future of for Llanfyllin's car parts factory is 'looking good', the town's county councillor has said.

Earlier in the week union chiefs claimed that there are up to four potential buyers for Stadco in the town after it was announced in October that the company plans to close the plant in Llanfyllin.

In an update at this month's Llanfyllin Town Council meeting, held remotely via Zoom, town mayor and county councillor Peter Lewis said that while he could not go into details, things are moving in the right direction.

He said: "It's looking very positive and we should hear more in the next few weeks.

"They have got plenty of work to keep them going and are actually taking on more staff as it is so busy at the moment.

"Things haven't been confirmed yet, but it's looking good."

The news last month as a shock to Unite and the town's 130 strong workforce. Since the announcement Unite Wales has been in constant consultation with the company and the employee forum.

According to the union it has emerged that four potential buyers have come forward to save the site that is currently due to close at the end of 2021.

Unite has said it will do everything it can to support this process in order to secure future employment for our members.

Earlier this week the union called upon all stakeholders including the Welsh Automotive Forum, and the Welsh Government to fully support this process and leave no stone unturned to secure a successful buyout. They say it is essential that manufacturing remains in Llanfyllin and Stadco Powys continue its aftermarket cold press/forming business that is vital to the UK Automotive sector.

Regional Officer David Griffiths said: “The employees are entering a period of significant uncertainty. Their futures are in the balance with the end of the 45 day consultation period this month.

"Only by coordination of all interested parties with the employee forum can a new future for Llanfyllin be realized. Therefore the call is again for the MAGNA and STADCO board to invite the Union and their employee representatives into these talks with potential buyers.

"Together we can bring a new future to Llanfyllin and Mid Wales that badly needs good news to come from the earlier decision to relocate work to Telford."

A spokesman for Magna said the company would not be commenting on any speculation.