HONDA is creating 500 new jobs in Swindon as its factory prepares to export the five-door Civic to the American market for the first time.

Next summer, Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) will invest £200m in its production to start creating five-door Civic models for the mass market in USA.

In line with that increased volume, there will be 150 associates recruited between now and Christmas with another 350 expected by April.

The figure could go beyond 500 and all those brought in will be given fixed-term two-year contracts to allow HUM to gauge the US uptake before committing further.

The super-hot Swindon-built Civic Type R, with a top speed of 167mph, was launched in July. See video of LEIGH ROBINSON being treated to a spin around the Slovakia Ring by British Touring Car champion Matt Neal here

THE town’s MPs have responded to the Honda news with delight and taken the announcement as another show of commitment to Swindon long-term.

South Swindon MP Robert Buckland said: “This is huge news. It is a really important vote of confidence by Honda in the future of the Swindon plant.”

He also revealed he had already spoken with the car maker about targeting those vacancies at Swindon people with the town’s recruitment agencies.

“I have spoken to Honda myself and sought assurances they will be placing a priority on local recruitment,” he said.

“It’s really important that they engage with local agencies to make sure as many local people as possible benefit from this.

“There should also be an increase in apprenticeships, which is good news for local young people.

“Honda has a good track record of working with the community and local education establishments.”

Justin Tomlinson, North Swindon MP, said: “This is fantastic news for the whole town. It is a vital boost for our growing Swindon economy and shows a clear commitment from Honda to the town.

“Not only will this provide a boost to the people who will fill these roles but will also give confidence for the current work force.

“The workers can now feel more at ease along with the supply chain for Honda, which is huge in Swindon.”

Mr Buckland said this should be taken as good news for HUM’s supply chains too.

“This is a big opportunity for even more jobs to be created within our local community. I understand it might be the start of an expansion,” he said.

“While we cannot prejudge what will happen in the New Year, this is a clear sign of focussed investment in Swindon.

“This is not just good news for the associates there, it will benefit the supply chain as well.

“Honda has been working to improve its local supply chain with more companies locally and that’s an important factor in all of this.”