Amazon plans to create 1,400 jobs at £107 million centre are welcomed by Peterborough's civic leaders

The online tech giant has unveiled proposals to create its first One Distribution Centre, which is intended to quicken deliveries to customers, in a warehouse just meres from its main fulfilment centre at Kingston Park, Flaxley Road, where it already employs more than 1,000 people.

Recruitment is already under way to hire staff, including engineers, HR and IT professionals, health and safety, and finance specialists, for the new centre which is expected to open in September.

Sam Carling, MP for North West Cambridgeshire whose constituency will be home to the huge jobs-creating centre, said: “This is a significant investment in Peterborough and very welcome news for our region.

"Creating 1,400 new jobs will bring opportunities for local people, support our economy and provide a boost for businesses across the city.

It's also a reminder that economic growth and stronger rights at work go hand in hand.

He said: “While some suggested employment reforms would put off investment, companies are continuing to expand and create jobs across the country under this Labour Government.

"I look forward to hearing more about the opportunities this development will bring for residents in North West Cambridgeshire.”

Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes said: “This is a welcome boost for jobs and investment in Peterborough.

“It comes after other recent major investments like the opening of the new National Gas HQ in the city.

He said: “Whilst the economy faces a tough time with the fallout from the Iran crisis, we are beginning to turn a corner in Peterborough.

“We need to keep the focus on investment and work to ensure more people, particularly younger residents have the skills and opportunities to take up the new jobs coming here.”

Councillor Shabina Qayyum, leader of Peterborough City Council, said: "This is fantastic news for our city and a further example of Peterborough's growing reputation as a great place to invest and do business.

“Amazon has been a major employer in the city for the past 15 years and it is very positive that they are now expanding their operations and creating an additional 1,400 jobs.

"These roles will provide a wide range of employment opportunities for local residents, including young people looking to start their careers and those seeking to upskill or retrain.

She added: “Recruitment is underway for the new roles so I would encourage residents to find out more."

The One Distribution Centre will be Amazon’s first in the UK and will store products from suppliers and will be able to rapidly replenish its fulfilment centres.