JELD-WEN, a multi national firm that makes timber doors, windows and stairs has announced plans to close its factory in Lowestoft.

JELD-WEN, a multi national firm that makes timber doors, windows and stairs has announced plans to close its factory in Lowestoft.

Some 194 workers at the former Boulton and Paul factory look set to face unemployment.

They will now take part in a 90 day consultation period with bosses.

The company, which employs 20,000 people worldwide, said it has been hit by the recession and a downturn in the construction industry.

However, none of JELD-WEN's other UK plants in Sheffield, Melton Mowbray or Penrith is affected.

A spokesperson for JELD-WEN said: “We are looking for savings in our manufacturing process in order to remain competitive.

“We know that this is a difficult time for our colleagues in Lowestoft and we will be giving them our full support during the consultation process.”