FEARS are growing for the future of Dunbia’s retail packaging plant in Drongan.

The company has entered into a 30-day consultation period with a view to closing the site – putting 64 jobs at risk.

In February 2014, Dunbia acquired the site from Lynch Quality Meats on the back of winning lucrative contracts with Sainsbury’s and the Co-op.

However, Dunbia has recently lost contracts with Aldi who have been in partnership with the Drongan site for over a decade.

Dunbia is one of the biggest employers in the Doon Valley and the move would be a huge blow to the area’s economy.

Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley MSP Jeane Freeman has contacted the Northern Irish firm over the closure concerns.

She said: “I am concerned to hear that a period of consultation has commenced to review the future of the Dunbia site in Drongan. This will be a difficult time for the staff and for the local area.

“I have written to Dunbia’s chief executive at the company’s Northern Ireland base seeking information on the company’s future plans for the Drongan site.

“I also am in close contact with the Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise who have arranged an urgent meeting with the company to explore all options for the site. Should there be job losses, the Scottish Government’s Partnership Action for Continuing Employment (PACE) team stands ready to offer its full support to staff.”

A spokesperson for Dunbia said: “Dunbia confirms that it is entering into a consultation process with staff regarding the future of its retail packing plant [in East Ayrshire].

“The proposed closure puts 64 staff members at risk of redundancy, however the company will be offering staff the option to transfer to roles at other Dunbia sites and giving assistance in relocation.”