THE chairman of Chirk’s Kronospan factory has vowed to improve communication and relationships within the community in a letter addressed to the town’s residents.

Mike McKenna has issued a letter after the recent fire at the factory off Holyhead Road.

He also apologised on behalf of the factory for the inconvenience and disruption cause by the blaze which burnt for four days during January.

The letter has informed residents of a meeting which took place involving senior representatives of Kronospan, Chirk Town Council, Unite the Union, Wrexham Council and Natural Resources Wales, as well as Simon Baynes MP and Ken Skates AM.

Ways to improve public confidence and communication around the work of the factory was discussed, as well as ways to increase transparency around the roles of each of the organisations related to the Chirk site.

The letter also states the parties involved are committed to a series of actions, including Wrexham Council and Natural Resources Wales being clearer about the regulatory process and what happens when incidents arise.

It also states unions will ensure the voice of the workforce is heard, and that Chirk Town Council will work alongside the community to ensure accurate and effective communication.

An extract from Public Health Wales was included in the letter to address any health concerns residents may have after the fire.

It states: “Following the logyard fire, a number of questions have been received from local residents asking questions regarding their health.

“We have been advised that any health effects from the fire are short-term and short-lived for the majority of residents, the symptoms usually disappear quickly and should not lead to long-term health problems.

“We would advise residents of the local community to heed the advice issued by Public Health Wales, and if anyone is concerned about their symptoms they should contact their GP or NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.”