A LOCAL councillor has offered his support to employees affected by the ‘devastating’ closure of a Barnsley-based company.

Euramax Solutions Ltd, based on Ashroyd’s Way in Platts Common, was founded in 1950 originally under the name Ellbee.

The firm, which manufacture uPVC windows and doors for holiday homes and home improvement markets, operates a mammoth 205,000sq ft facility in the town.

The business was one of many organisations left out of pocket when Knaresborough-based housebuilder Ilke Homes entered liquidation last year.

After appointing administrators earlier in the year, it was confirmed this month that around 200 employees had been made redundant and the firm had ceased trading with immediate effect.

Coun Dave White, who represents the Rockingham ward, told the Chronicle: “The recent events relating to Euramax are devastating for those that were employed there, their families and the community here.

“There was a lot of speculation at the time that the administrators may have been able to save the business.

“But pretty quickly it was realised that this was not possible.

“Administrators are appointed to simply carry out a job of realising the best assets and financial outcome.”

He has offered his support to those who have been affected by the decision to close the site, as have Barnsley Council.

“Euramax were subjected to a failure of one of their biggest customers,” he added.

“I’ve said already that a company of this size would always find the ability to be agile enough to redevelop its core product offering almost impossible.

“An unfortunate victim of circumstances, and from the drivers, cleaners, shop floor operators and hard working grafters, all the way to director level, none of them wanted this sad outcome, and our hearts go out to those impacted by this.

“Support is available via Barnsley Council along with other agencies.

“For those looking for contacts and immediate help, get in touch with myself for signposting.”