The new Evri hub in Barnsley will be operational from today, providing a major jobs boost in the local area.
The brand-new development, accessed directly from the M1 via a new road which is now enabling traffic to by-pass the centre of Hoyland Common, represents a £60 million investment. It will have the capacity to process up to 1.1 million parcels per day, providing up to 1,400 jobs. This includes seasonal or part-time warehouse or HGV driving roles available to support during busy periods for those looking for more flexible employment.
A successful recruitment drive, supported by an open day held at the Barnsley Digital Media Centre, has seen a big interest from local jobseekers, and a range of skilled positions have now been filled as the site moves towards opening.
Over 200 operatives have been recruited, with 80 per cent of people from the local area, which is excellent news for the local economy.
As well as the many operative roles, 135 management and administration positions have been filled, many with local people, and the diverse range of jobs has proven very attractive to local job seekers in the area.
Evri, working closely with the council’s Enterprising Barnsley team, Barnsley Council Employment and Skills, Barnsley College and Jobcentre Plus, has been focused on identifying local talent and skills, helping people find out more about the roles available, and allowing people to chat and explore some of the great career opportunities with Evri.
The site also has a number of sustainability initiatives, including a fleet of bio CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) vehicles, planting of over 25,000 shrubs and trees, and solar panels. Earlier this month, Evri was recognised for its work in this area and won ‘Best Environmental Practice’ at the Green World Awards.
For the new Barnsley site, the council’s Masterplan Framework enabled us to work closely with the developer and Evri to achieve a very high standard in all aspects of construction, landscaping and sustainability.
The council is committed to supporting Evri in its recruitment efforts and looks forward to the launch of business operations here in Barnsley.
Cllr Robert Frost, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said:
“We are delighted to see the positive figures on recruitment for the new Evri site here in Barnsley. Our commitment has been to create more and better jobs in the borough, and it’s great to see local people benefitting from new job opportunities in a range of roles.
“It is also a key benefit from such a significant investment, like the Evri site, that we will attract new people and businesses to the area to enjoy all that Barnsley has to offer.
“Barnsley is investing so businesses, and jobs, stay in Barnsley. Having a job is more than just income. It’s about having a purpose and motivation, supporting good health and having a sense of pride and belonging. We are committed to giving people these opportunities. I know many people will be excited about starting their new roles, and I wish all staff at Evri every success at the new Barnsley hub.”
Gareth Shawcroft, Head of Barnsley Hub at Evri, said:
“We’re pleased to have created so many great job opportunities for the local community, and I’m delighted that a large number are from the surrounding areas with such a good range of applicants and skillsets. A number of local contractors were used during the build, and we intend to continue those relationships. This is a huge investment for the business as we respond to the ever-increasing demand for online shopping and lead the way in creating responsible delivery experiences for everyone, everywhere.”