UP TO 70 workers face the axe at Clitheroe conservatory manufacturer Ultraframe UK.

The firm has entered into consultation with its 295-strong workforce about the proposed losses as fears mount over a downturn in the market.

The company’s headquarters is in Salthill Road, Clitheroe.

Ultraframe UK chief executive, Mike Price, said: “While we are market leader in a very tough and competitive environment and there are signs of our competitors struggling, the economic climate is out of our control and confirmation that we are officially in a recession along with a visible downturn in the housing and building sectors has had a negative impact on us.

“It is essential that our cost base is aligned to our sales to ensure that we have a viable business moving forward.

“Unfortunately, therefore, we have announced a consultation period with regards to a maximum of 70 positions being placed at risk of redundancy across the business.

“We hope that this number reduces following consultation with our workforce.

“Job losses are a last resort, but we are confident that we can ride through this stormy period and come out the other side in good shape to grow our business.”