The South Lanarkshire Council has unanimously condemned the UK Government’s decision to close the Cambuslang Jobcentre, a move that will require residents and staff to relocate to the Rutherglen centre, approximately two miles away. The closure, slated for January, has drawn significant criticism from local councillors, community groups, and residents, who argue it will have a severe detrimental impact on the community.

A motion, put forward by Cllr Katy Loudon and seconded by Cllr Carol Nugent, expressed deep concern over the announcement, noting the lack of prior consultation with elected members, affected communities, service users, Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) unions, and employees. This decision is particularly contentious as the Jobcentre was successfully saved from a similar proposed closure in 2017 following a widely-supported campaign that highlighted the negative effects on local communities.

Opponents of the closure emphasize the disproportionate impact it will have on vulnerable individuals and those residing in areas of deprivation. The Cambuslang Jobcentre is strategically co-located within Cambuslang Gate, alongside other essential services such as health, addiction recovery, housing, and social work. Furthermore, its proximity to Routes to Work South, an award-winning employment champion that supported over 1600 people into employment last year, is seen as crucial. Losing this geographic link is considered a significant loss for both the organization and the community. Concerns also extend to potential financial liabilities and loss of income for the Council should the DWP not extend its lease in the central town-centre location.

Councillor Loudon highlighted the logistical challenges, pointing out that travel from areas like Greenlees to Rutherglen can take 35 to 40 minutes by bus. Councillor Nugent added that the repercussions extend beyond Cambuslang, noting that the Rutherglen Jobcentre has been temporarily closed for renovations (from September 2025 to January 2026), forcing her constituents to travel to Cambuslang for services, which she described as a “false economy.” Both Labour councillor Margaret Walker and Lib-Dem councillor Norman Rae echoed concerns about the “detrimental impact” on residents and the town centre.

Several hundred local residents have signed a petition against the closure, and Cambuslang Community Council has called for a reversal of the DWP decision, proposing an outreach service or community hub as an alternative. In response to the widespread opposition, the Council has instructed its Chief Executive to formally write to the DWP, stating its strong opposition to the plans.

A spokesperson for the DWP, however, defended the relocation, stating it helps to use buildings more efficiently without affecting service provision. They claimed that all customers live within three miles of the Rutherglen Jobcentre and that significant improvements are being made to the Rutherglen site to create a more modern working environment for staff and better serve customers. The temporary closure of Rutherglen Jobcentre for these works is scheduled from September 2025, with reopening anticipated in January 2026.