THE Atomic Weapons Establishment has announced that it is proposing to cut 500 roles.

In a statement released by the company today, it said: "The organisation is proposing to reduce the number of roles in some support functions and activities of the business where this is appropriate, with a reduction of around 500 roles across the organisation."

The company employs 6,100 staff across its sites at Aldermaston and Burghfield.

AWE said the cuts are part of its "programme of continuous improvement" which includes changes to "increase the effectiveness and efficiency in our operations in support of programme delivery."

It added that "safety, security and quality" will remain central to all operations.

It is not clear how many jobs will be lost as a result of the changes.

The statement added: "They [the changes] focus on improving and streamlining ways of working, investing in the capability of our people whilst reshaping and rebalancing our resources with all roles contributing directly to programme delivery.

"While the company is committed to avoiding compulsory redundancies where possible, a reduction of roles in some areas and an increase in others is required to ensure long-term efficiencies while meeting overall programme requirements.

"The welfare of our staff is our main concern and we will be doing everything we can to support them throughout the process."

AWE said recruitment for key skills in disciplines such as science, engineering and technology will continue, adding: "We have been working closely with our customer, regulators, employees and trades unions in planning these changes and will continue to do so through the formal consultation period."