Planned Melton Mowbray factory closure puts 161 jobs at risk

The planned closure of the Holwell factory was announced by Saint-Gobain PAM UK

Plans to close a metals factory in Leicestershire has put 161 people at risk of redundancy.

The Holwell foundry, in Melton Mowbray, dates back to 1881 and manufactures access covers and gratings.

Owner Saint-Gobain PAM UK said a consultation on the proposal to shut the factory - in December - was under way.

It said the foundry had faced challenges in recent years, including cost increases and the pandemic.

The firm, owned by French parent company Saint-Gobain, plans to move manufacturing of its access covers and gratings to a sister site in Blénod, in France.

Alan Gwilliam, Saint-Gobain managing director, called the move a "sensible solution", saying the Holwell factory had become "uncompetitive".

He said: "We know this is a significant announcement that will affect many local people as well as the many employees of the site, the majority of whom are from the town.

"Holwell has been an important part of the town since 1881 and we know there are many local people with current and past ties to the plant.

"We will of course act with consideration and respect to all involved as we move through this uncertain time."

Saint-Gobain said it was also consulting with the GMB union.