UNION leaders have hit out at Chivas Brothers after the whisky giant confirmed it is to close its Paisley site within the next three years.

Chivas had announced in November its intention to transfer workers from the Renfrew Road plant to a new factory in Dumbarton.

A consultation exercise was launched and, this week, the company confirmed the fate of the Paisley base, with the transfer to be completed by 2019.

However, officials at Unite Scotland have criticised Chivas for snubbing a request to extend the consultation period.

Pat McIlvogue, the union’s regional officer, said: “Our members still have a lot of anxiety about this move and many still have questions about the transfer of work to Dumbarton.

READ MORE: Chivas Brothers confirm closure of Paisley facility

“We asked Chivas Brothers to extend their consultation but they refused. That is disappointing.

“This is a stressful time for our members and our request was completely reasonable.

“Unite will continue to work to make sure that no member suffers a loss as a result of these plans.”

Around 450 workers are employed at the Paisley site.

The transfer of operations from Paisley to Dumbarton, which is set to get under way next year, is part of a £40 million restructuring plan.

Chivas bosses insist they have “engaged closely” with staff over the move to Dumbarton.

A spokeswoman said: “All employees were given the opportunity to ask questions. Over 300 questions were submitted, discussed and answered over the two-month period and a series of 10 meetings took place with employee representatives.

“We want to ensure the very best possible transition for our employees and so, while the official consultation process has now closed, we will hold individual consultation meetings with every employee who wishes to have one.

“We will also establish working groups covering two key themes identified by employees - travel and transport and flexible working.”