Aluminium company Alcan has announced plans to close two of its UK sites where more than 300 people work.The firm said it was consulting with unions about the proposed closure of its Workington site, in Cumbria, and Midsomer Norton site, in Somerset.

It said all 161 workers at the Workington site and 218 at Midsomer Norton would be affected.

Alcan said it was to ensure long-term viability and competitiveness and due to “challenging business realities”.

The Workington plant produces stringers and bars for the aerospace and engineering markets.

‘Devastating blow’

Under the plans, production would stop at Workington by the end of the second quarter of 2007. The company said production from there would be consolidated at its facilities in Issoire and Montreuil-Juigne, France.

The Midsomer Norton site produces flexible food packaging for the UK snack market. Alcan said the plant had been hit by a declining demand in the UK market and high raw material costs.

It said the site would close by the end of 2006.

Alcan’s senior vice president human resources, Jean-Christophe Deslarzes said: “After thoroughly exploring and examining various alternatives, this proposed reorganisation represents the most viable solution to ensure the long-term competitiveness of Alcan’s European assets.

“The company has a long tradition of treating its employees fairly and is committed to carrying out this proposed reorganisation process transparently so as to find the best solutions for the affected employees.”

Workington MP Tony Cunningham said: “It’s a devastating blow. But there’s a huge anger and sadness about this particular announcement.

“The plant has been there for many, many years. People have worked their entire working lives there - became apprentices at 15/16 and are in their 50s now. And to come along at this stage and say we are closing the plant down is without doubt a tragedy, it’s without doubt devastating to the area.”