(Telecompaper) Dutch cable operator Ziggo announced that 450 jobs will be scrapped as a result of its merger with UPC Netherlands. Several hundred temporary and external contracts also will not be renewed, and the company is closing offices in Heerhugowaard, Rijswijk and Nijmegen. As earlier announced, the head office will remain in Utrecht. The restructuring plans cover the period 2015-2018 and come as UPC prepares to adopt the Ziggo brand in April. The operators presented the proposals to their works councils for approval. A social plan will offer affected employees assistance in finding new work, both internally and externally. The job cuts will affect areas such as product development, innovation and infrastructure as well as several layers of management. Ziggo said the aim is to work better and more efficiently under the new structure, with a strong focus on customer service.