Hundreds of workers face losing their jobs at a Northumberland factory.

400 roles could now be lost at the Coty cosmetic factory in Seaton Deleval.

It follows Coty's merger with Proctor & Gamble's specialty beauty business last year and the decision to consolidate its fragrance operations on fewer sites.

Subject to the approval of its board, it will close by the end of 2018.

In a statement the company say;

Today we have announced proposed changes to our international manufacturing network including our fragrance operation in Seaton Delaval.

These proposals are the result of a detailed study of our expanded global manufacturing capacities and capabilities for each of our divisions following the merger with P&G Specialty Beauty brands and with the objective to enable our future growth.

As a result of the study’s recommendations, we are proposing subject to Board approval, to consolidate our fragrance operations into fewer core centres which will result in the proposed closure of the Seaton plant.

Specific timelines are still under consideration and subject to consultation in relation to these proposals. If the proposals go ahead the site will close by the end of calendar year 2018. It is anticipated that, subject to consultation, approximately 400 roles will be affected in Seaton.

Commenting on the announcement, Kay Plumley, Site Leader at Seaton Delaval said;

“I am committed to fully supporting all our colleagues in Seaton through the coming months. Our priority is to work closely with them and their families throughout the consultation and to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and with respect.”

Meanwhile, Northumberland County Council have also responded to the announcement.

The authority has pledged to do everything in its powers to safeguard the future of the factory.

Councillor Grant Davey, Leader of Northumberland County Council said:

"This is very worrying news for us in the county, and particularly for the staff who work in the factory, which has been a major employer in the area for many years. The loss of so many jobs would have a massive impact, not just on individuals and their families but also the wider economy and future prosperity of the area.

Along with our partners we are exploring all avenues to see what support the council can provide in the short, medium and long term. We will be seeking an urgent meeting with management at the site and will be working with development company Arch to pull together a taskforce, as we have done for other major employers which have faced similar situations.”