A pharmaceutical company has announced it will close its plant in Newbie, near Annan in southern Scotland.
Macfarlan Smith – a subsidiary of American company Veranova – said it followed a review of its production capacity.
The company said the move would affect about 65 jobs.
Niek Stapel, Veranova’s CEO, said: “Every effort has been made not to propose the closure of the plant.”
He added: “This was a difficult decision that in no way reflects the performance or commitment of our colleagues at Annan.”
The company said the proposed closure is subject to statutory consultation requirements under UK law.
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MacFarlan Smith took over the South Scotland site in 2014 after it had been operated by a number of companies.
It was originally commissioned by Glaxo in 1980.
Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell and constituency MSP Oliver Mundell have written a joint letter to South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) to discuss what options are available to try to mitigate job losses avoid or reduce.
“History shows that the pharmaceutical industry is adapting and contracting, as has been shown in this factory for several decades,” said Oliver Mundell.
“There has been a lot of private and public investment at this site over a long period of time and it is important that every effort is made to try to restore employment there in the longer term.”
David Mundell said: “We will seek clarification from the company as to what led to this decision and will of course be contacting any agencies that may be able to help in any way.”
SOSE chief executive Jane Morrison-Ross said she was aware of the “very worrying” news.
“This announcement will be extremely distressing for employees employed at the Newbie site, their families and the local community,” she said.
“We are keeping abreast of the situation along with the Scottish Government, Skills Development Scotland and Dumfries and Galloway Council.”
Precautions are being taken to support affected workers.
Are you affected by this decision? Contact the BBC at dumfries@bbc.co.uk.
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