UNIONS have called for talks with electricity and gas supplier npower after its move away from Tyneside provoked criticism from some quarters.

The company announced on Monday it is moving into the former Northern Rock building in Rainton Bridge, on Wearside, which would replace its current Newcastle base once the lease expires next year.

The move, which is the biggest office purchase in the region for more than a decade, and the biggest in the UK for 18 months, will see 900 npower staff moving offices, and could pave the way for new jobs in the North-East.

However, concerns have been expressed about the extra distance many of the Tyneside-based employees will have to travel. Yesterday, union Unison called on npower to hold talks to try to ensure no employees will be worse off because of the move.

Daniel Alderson, Unison’s North-East branch secretary, said: “We see the move as a demonstration of the company’s commitment to the North-East. However there needs to be recognition that staff could be put in difficulties.

Our aim must be to ensure no one in the company will be worse off because of this move, jobs are secure and the company expands.”

Unison said it is organising consultation sessions with its members after Easter.