by Jenny Engstrom A dedicated team of blind factory workers are facing the sack following a controversial proposal to close down their business. The factory, in Old Oak Lane, Willesden Junction, which provides sheltered employment for 33

by Jenny Engstrom

A dedicated team of blind factory workers are facing the sack following a controversial proposal to close down their business.

The factory, in Old Oak Lane, Willesden Junction, which provides sheltered employment for 33 blind or partially sighted people, is facing the axe following a cut in funding grants.

The Royal London Society for the Blind (RLSB), which runs the site, said it has spent more than £1.7 million over the last five years to keep the factory running but can no longer afford it.

Brian Cooney, RLSB chief executive, said: "This is a very sad day indeed but our charity has simply not been left with any alternative."

The workers are sponsored individually by their own local authority through capitation grants.

A spokesman for the RLSB said not only were the employees given less money per capita, but fewer councils were now offering the grants.

The factory, which opened in 1997, specialises in cleaning and repairing keg 'spears' and producing high precision components for car, marine, and torpedo engines.

For many of the workers it offers a great sense of independence.

Mr Cooney added: "This is a fantastically committed and loyal workforce, which makes the proposed closure of the factory all the worse.

"The RLSB will, of course, do all we can to help them into new jobs and give them all the advice and support we can."

A four-week consultation with the workers and unison representatives is underway.

A Brent Council spokeswoman said: "Brent Council funds about seven employees at the RLSB factory. Funding arrangements for these posts until 2011 were agreed by the council's executive committee last year.

"This is the first we have heard about the proposed closure of the factory and we will be speaking with the RLSB to clarify the position and to discuss any future employment possibilities."

jenny.engstrom@archant.co.uk