ENGINEERING firm Doosan Babcock has announced that it intends to close its Renfrew facility.

The site on Porterfield Road employs 150 people, all of which will be affected by the closure.

Across the UK, the firm is attempting to shed 470 jobs.

Doosan Babcock chief executive officer, Andrew Hunt, said: “Over the last year we have worked hard to rebalance the business, adapting to changing market dynamics and reacting to industry requirements for a low-carbon future.

“Unfortunately, we foresee long-term downturn in certain market sectors which mean the current position is unsustainable.

“It is with much regret that we now have to enter in to the statutory consultation period on redundancies.

"This is particularly difficult for a company which places great importance on staff development and we will do our utmost to support our colleagues during this period of change.”

He added: “The continued long-term growth of the business across the UK and in strategic international markets remains a priority. We have made significant progress in transforming and future-proofing the business but this will only prove successful if we also reduce our cost base in parallel.

“Until the consultation period has concluded it would be inappropriate to provide further comment.”

Gavin Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, said: “I am extremely disappointed to learn that Doosan Babcock’s is to enter into a formal consultation with its employees that could result in significant job losses.

“Following the announcement by Chivas a few weeks ago this announcement represents another kick in the teeth for Renfrewshire.

“Both Chivas and Babcock’s are two longstanding Renfrewshire-based companies, with both providing careers to generations of local families.

“My thoughts at the moment are with the workers of Doosan Babcock’s in Renfrew. There is never of a good time to learn that you may be potentially losing your job, but to do so in the run-up to Christmas is particularly insensitive.

“I will be contacting Doosan Babcock’s to find out more about this restructure and its implications. I am ready to offer as much assistance as possible to the workforce.”