Local MP Alister Jack has urged the owners of the threatened Rowan Glen creamery to engage with a consortium behind a buy-out proposal.
Almost 50 jobs at the long-established facility at Palnure, near Newton Stewart, are under threat after the yoghurt producer’s parent company revealed restructuring plans.
Dairy co-operative Dale Farm, whose main base is in Northern Ireland, is considering ending production at the Wigtownshire site and a sister creamery in south Cumbria.
Mr Jack, who is also Scottish Secretary, described Rowan Glen as a respected brand widely associated with the lush pastures of south-west Scotland.
He has now written a letter to senior management at Dale Farm highlighting his concerns about the potential loss of valuable jobs in his constituency.
Mr Jack warned the proposal would be a ‘major blow’ to the employees, their families and the wider community in Mid Galloway.
In his letter, the MP states: “A consortium of local parties have developed a proposal for a buyout-style arrangement to purchase the Palnure site and assets and I understand that you have received the prospectus.
“In my view this is a plan that not only protects local jobs but ensures the future of a dairy processing facility in the area.
“I am therefore urging you to engage in discussions around this proposal. First and foremost, it is important that every effort is made to protect the workforce and any viable plan that secures the Rowan Glen facility should, in my view, be given serious consideration.
“If I can be of any assistance please do not hesitate to get in touch and I would be grateful if you could keep me updated.”