AN industrial plant that has been based in the town for more than 70 years is to review ceasing the production of chemicals.

Solvay, located on Baronet Road in Lower Walton, produces hydrogen peroxide in a variety of grades for use in a wide variety of applications.

These include pulp and paper bleaching, disinfection, environmental treatment, chemical synthesis and aquaculture.

Paramove, a special grade of hydrogen peroxide used in the fish farming industry, is also produced by a manufacturing facility at Warrington.

The site was first established in the town in 1948 and became fully owned by Solvay in 1992.

However, the Warrington Guardian has received a number of reports that the plant will be ‘closing down’ affecting more than 50 members of staff.

Warrington Guardian: Solway, located on Baronet Road in Lower Walton, produces hydrogen peroxideSolway, located on Baronet Road in Lower Walton, produces hydrogen peroxide (Image: Newsquest)

The question was put to Solvay which confirmed that a review of production at the Warrington site has been commissioned, but for the site to remain open.

A Solvay spokesman said: “As a market leader in peroxides, Solvay continuously evaluates the effectiveness of its global operations.

“As such, in order to strengthen competitiveness and optimize its operations, Solvay has announced a project to review ceasing production at the Warrington site, subject to collective consultation.

“The plan is for the site to remain open under Solvay ownership and continue some site operations to service our customers effectively.

“We are now engaged in the collective consultation process and will make all necessary efforts to minimize any impact on employees.”