British Nuclear Group and Serco have concluded an agreement to transfer 63 engineering staff working for Reactor Sites at Berkeley to Serco with effect from 31 October 2005.

Staff involved in the move provide a range of engineering and technical support services. They will continue to be based at Berkeley, near Gloucester. The agreement was developed in full consultation with the staff and unions.
 
Speaking about the agreement, Mark Morant, Managing Director, Management Services, Reactor Sites said: 

“I believe this agreement is an excellent outcome. This will preserve the skills and experience of the team for Management Services, Reactor Sites and its customer, the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority. At the same time, the team will benefit from greater security of employment as the nuclear industry increasingly focuses on decommissioning activities. Keeping these roles at Berkeley also preserves local employment at a time of significant change on the Berkeley site.”

Dr Bob McGuiness, CEO of Serco Science, said:

"We are delighted to welcome the Reactor Sites’ staff to Serco. They will complement the skills within our growing Assurance business and their technical capability will be an asset in supporting our long-term position as a key contractor in the nuclear industry. It is crucial for UK plc that the knowledge and specialist expertise of these engineers is maintained. Already a leading employer of UK scientists, Serco is keen to reinforce the position of science and technology as key resources for the UK economy."

Mike Graham, of Prospect, the union representing the staff involved said:

“Prospect, the lead Trades Union in the nuclear industry, recognises the value of this TUPE transfer of staff.  It should secure long-term employment for employees with an employer that recognises the value of a positive relationship with Prospect”.