TEMPORARY contracts for 248 workers at Nissan's Sunderland plant will not be renewed as the company faces a drop in demand for new cars, it has been announced.

The news from Nissan comes days after the plant began moves to re-start production.

Demand for new cars has fallen hugely during the coronavirus outbreak, adding to issues already facing the automotive industry.

Along with the job losses, Nissan has announced that it is aiming to get production on one of its line re-started by June 22, and a second line a week later.

Nissan continually adjusts production to meet market demand.

A spokesperson for the firm said: “Given current business conditions in Europe we are facing a period of reduced volumes in our Sunderland Plant.

“Unfortunately, therefore, we will not be extending the contracts of 248 temporary manufacturing staff at the plant.”