It was a central feature of the EU ‘remain’ campaign that Britain’s largest car plant, operated by Nissan, would close as a result of the British people’s vote to leave the EU.  Employing over 7,700 people in Sunderland, this would have been a sad consequence and seemed inevitable.  Though many questioned whether this decision had anything to do with Brexit as the vehicles which the plant produced, were essentially, end of life for that production line. 

Retooling a production line for a new vehicle is not so far removed from building an entirely new plant.

However, in a massive U turn, the Japanese car manufacturer has recommitted to Britain and confirmed that the plant will stay open.   Nissan have now confirmed that instead of closing the British plant in Sunderland, they will close their EU plant in Barcelona Spain sparking demonstrations from the Spanish workforce.  As the Euro zone is in economic free fall, one can only wonder if there will be an EU to leave before the UK finally exits the EU in December.

Nissan have confirmed that the much anticipated new Qashqai will be produced in the UK.  A very nice vehicle it is too at between 20,195 to 35,700 (ish) UK pound stirling and this move safeguards a large number of jobs in Sunderland for the foreseeable future.

One of the few remaining project fear myths has now be roundly dispelled.  Are there any left?