Peugeot has cancelled the Coventry debut of the 207 at the Ricoh Arena because of pressure from the local community, according to the Transport and General Workers Union.

Local union leaders have reported many people expressing their anger that Peugeot, which is moving production from the area to Slovakia, are ‘rubbing people’s noses in it’ by wanting to use the Ricoh Arena.

“People pressure has worked again and sent a powerful message to Peugeot,” said Des Quinn, T&G regional industrial organiser and former Ryton worker.

“We want Peugeot directors to know they have made the wrong decision. This expression by the community shows that if Peugeot want to turn their back on Coventry, Coventry will fight back.”

The decision to close the Ryton plant in Coventry was made in April, with a loss of approximately 2,300 staff.

The plant will be brought to a close in two stages. It currently operates two shifts, which will be moved to a single shift in July. Production will not continue beyond July next year.

The company says it will work with trade unions and the Government throughout the next few months to provide support packages for its staff.

Slovakian trade unions have also lent their support to the UK unions. Emil Machyna, OZ KOVO president, said Peugeot did not care about employees who are losing their jobs and incomes.

“We strongly protest against the employers’ practices,” he wrote to coincide with the Paris protest. “We express our full solidarity with our colleagues in the United Kingdom in their fair fight for keeping production in their country.”