A COMPANY is axing 50 jobs as it closes one of its factories.
Kimberly-Clark Professional has confirmed 50 of its workforce are losing their jobs as part of the closure of of its Flint plant at Delyn Mill.
It was announced last year there could be 60 redundancies at the factory as the company makes restructuring changes.
A 120-day consultation period has been carried out and the projected number of job losses has been reduced by 10.
The majority of redundancies have been taken voluntarily and employees will leave throughout the year.
Euan Anderson, Kimberly-Clark Professional’s manager of the Flint site, said: “Although nearly all the redundancies have been reached on a voluntary basis we understand this is still a stressful experience for our employees.
“We will continue to work with all those affected to ensure they are supported as they seek alternative employment.
“We would like to thank everyone for their professionalism and commitment during this difficult time.”
Employees are expected to leave on a phased redundancy programme, with the last leaving in December.
Community leaders and politicians have voiced their disappointment at the announcement.
Flint Coleshill councillor Alex Aldridge said: “It is a very sad day.
“We have been aware for some time this was likely to happen but the loss of 50 jobs is very disappointing news.
“It will represent lost opportunities for people looking to find work in the future.”
Speaking shortly after the announcement on Friday, Delyn MP David Hanson said: “Even though these proposals have been under consultation for some time, today’s announcement that 50 jobs will be lost is really disappointing.
“This isn’t an easy economic time for businesses or individuals, so I’m pleased agreement has been reached with the majority of employees to take voluntary redundancy.
“I understand the remaining two Kimberly-Clark mills are to continue unaffected.”
The company is to hold an event on March 25 to support employees in partnership with Flintshire Council and other organisations.