Residents and readers have been sharing their reactions after it was confirmed that manufacturing operations at AGC Chemicals Europe's Hillhouse site in Thornton Cleveleys will cease by the end of the year, affecting more than 200 jobs.
The company announced this week that production at the site will end by December 31, following the completion of a consultation process involving trade unions and employee representatives.
The closure will affect 190 permanent employees and 18 agency workers.
News of the decision prompted debate online, with many expressing concern for workers and the wider economic impact on the Fylde coast.
Some commenters pointed to rising costs facing industry, particularly energy prices.
One wrote: "It's simple, energy costs on an ageing site. Energy costs are crippling industry across Europe."
Others suggested a combination of factors could have contributed to the decision, citing increases in employment costs and broader economic pressures on manufacturing businesses.
One reader commented: "National insurance, minimum wage, every little helps. Not."
Another said the closure would have consequences beyond the workforce directly employed at the plant.
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They wrote: "It's not just those jobs either. The surrounding businesses will also suffer."
The announcement also sparked political debate, with some attempting to link the closure to government policy, while others argued global market conditions and international economic challenges were more likely to be responsible.
However, one comment that generated a strong response came from a reader who wrote: "Thank god."
That remark was quickly challenged by others.
One person replied: "Fancy celebrating the loss of 200 well-paid jobs, people with families and mortgages."
AGC Chemicals Europe has said it explored options for the future of the site but concluded there was "no viable solution" to keep operations running in what it described as a "volatile and competitive market".
The company has pledged to provide enhanced redundancy packages and employment support for affected staff and said it will continue working with Wyre Council, the Environment Agency and other authorities as plans for the site's future are considered.
The Hillhouse facility has been a significant employer in Thornton Cleveleys for decades and its closure marks another blow for manufacturing on the Fylde coast.
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