A Shropshire MP has called for everything to be done to “achieve the best outcome” after meeting workers at a factory threatened with closure.

Ludlow MP Philip Dunne said the meeting with at Novelis in Bridgnorth had been “constructive”. The foil rolling and packaging company announced earlier this month proposals to close the factory with the potential loss of 319 jobs.

A formal 90-day consultation process with staff has now begun at the Stourbridge Road plant, which could close in June next year.

Mr Dunne, who also toured the factory, had arranged the meeting after the company’s announcement.

He said: “I was pleased to meet members of the consultation group representing all those employed at the Novelis plant and to be briefed on the status of discussions.

“As this is Bridgnorth’s largest employer with 319 directly employed and a further 25 contractors on site, it is vital that everything is done to seek the best outcome for all concerned.

“There was a constructive attitude at the meeting. It is clear that it is business as usual while the consultation continues. I am also pleased that Shropshire Council is fully engaged in this process.”

Steve Westwood, plant manager at Novelis, said: “My colleagues and I are glad the local MP Philip Dunne and Shropshire Council are taking such an active interest. We gave a thorough briefing on progress of the current consultation.

“I look forward to briefing all of Bridgnorth’s Shropshire councillors next week.”

The minimum 90-day consultation period will end December 6 at the earliest.

Novelis has set up a consultation group, including management at the plant and representatives of its employees, such as Unite with 96 members and the Manufacturing Staff Association with 27 members.

Bosses have blamed “over-capacity” in the European foil market and increasing competition from other countries for the decision to consult over closing the factory.