Arla proposes creamery closure following significant decline in site volumes

"We are entering into full consultation with all colleagues affected by this proposal, and their trade union representatives.

"If the proposal goes ahead we are committed to supporting affected colleagues at this difficult time and will do everything we can to support them in their search for suitable alternative employment, either within Arla or elsewhere.”

It is understood the milk from Arla farmers in the area would go to Arla’s sites at Taw Valley and Westbury, if the proposal goes ahead.

But the firm expects to cease supply to customers of remaining products made at the creamery by the end of early summer 2021, since these cannot be made at other Arla facilities due to their production process and compositions.

Dairy industry analyst Chris Walkland said the announcement reflects the torrid time a lot of smaller cheesemakers went through in 2020.

"Trevarrian, while a tiny plant in the great scheme of things, was too big not to have to rely on supermarket contracts, so when those contracts are lost it inevitably affects the viability of the plant," Mr Walkland said.