Mobile phone operator Orange said today it will use Siemens' empty semiconductor plant on Tyneside as a temporary call centre.

Orange will use the plant during the construction of a new plant at the nearby Cobalt business park. The operation at the former Siemens plant will start by the middle of September when building of the new site will also begin.

According to Orange, the new customer service centre will be one of three in Darlington, North Tyneside and Peterlee. The company is investing £20 million in the new centres, bringing the company's investment in the North East to date to over £40 million.

Rita Stringfellow, leader of North Tyneside Council commented: "It is excellent news that a company of Orange's stature and known commitment to the community has decided to locate in North Tyneside."

"It is especially pleasing that Orange will make use of the Siemens offices until its new premises are ready for use. This demonstrates the changing dynamic of that site, which is still being marketed worldwide," she said.

Siemens' semiconductor plant closed last summer resulting in the loss of around 1200 jobs. (see Newswire 6 August 1999)

See also:

Siemens sells UK chip plant to Atmel

Siemens has announced the sale of its closed-down North Tyneside semiconductor factory to US microchip manufacturer, Atmel for an undisclosed sum.  18 Sep 2000

Siemens near to reviving UK chip factory

Siemens is close to clinching a deal on its North Tyneside semiconductor plant which was closed last summer resulting in the loss of more than 1000 jobs.  15 Mar 2000

Orange to slash prepaid mobile phone prices in the UK

Orange is planning to cut its prepaid mobile phone packages in the UK by up to 50 per cent in an attempt to boost usage.  27 Oct 1999

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