OVER 60 jobs could be lost in Barnoldswick after one of the town’s main employers announced plans to move part of its operation.

Bosses at bed spring manufacturer Leggett and Platt Springs UK confirmed staff had been informed of the job cuts.

The move will reduce the Barnoldswick workforce to just 44 people being involved with production of Miracoil units for nearby Silentnight.

A councillor is now calling for urgent talks to prevent the losses, but company bosses said further investment in the site was “not viable”. The firm plans to move its open coil spring and frame making production to a new base in Grimethorpe, near Barnsley.

Two years ago around 250 people were employed by the firm in Barnoldswick, but the latest move could see 61 workers lose their jobs.

Due to the location and relationship with Silentnight, the manufacture of its Miracoil Spring Units and Torsion Coil will remain at the Barnoldswick facility along with some other support functions, securing a significant number of jobs.

Graeme Buchanan, general manager, said a 30-day consultation period would now commence to explore ways of avoiding, reducing or mitigating the proposals.

He added: “While the company deeply regrets the impact these proposals will have on its Barnoldswick workforce, the current challenging economic and market conditions means that further investment in the ageing buildings is not viable.

“Instead it is proposing to meet the needs of its customers and position itself for the future by focusing its efforts on maximising the returns from its significant recent investments and create a single World Class Lean facility at Barnsley.

“In addition as part of the proposals it is envisaged that there will be a range of positions on offer at the new facility with support where possible to aid employees to consider taking these roles.

“The company regrets these proposals and will do all it can to support its employees during these difficult times.”

Leggett and Platt is part of Hanes International, a US concern. The company bought the business from Silentnight about 10 years ago.

Craven Coun David Whipp described the plans as a “major blow” to the people who work there as well as the town.

He said: “Some of the workers have been with the company for over 30 years.

“Manufacturing is the lifeblood of Barnoldswick. We must do all we can to keep the company in their Barnoldswick base.”

The Liberal Democrat representative is now asking to meet bosses at the company to see what can be done to retain the jobs.