Around 250 jobs are at risk after Kodak Alaris bosses proposed closing its Harrow site because of market decline.

The company cited a "drop in demand coming into the factory" when it made the announcement to employees at the Headstone Gardens facility this morning.

Kodak Alaris is set to end manufacturing operations in Harrow by November with a view to closing the facility by the end of the year, subject to a 45-day consultation with employees and union representatives.

Brian McGowan, head of operations at Kodak Alaris, said it had been a challenge to find a way to make the operation in Harrow viable.

He said: "We have seen significant drops in production values in recent times.

"It's very disappointing news for people here in Harrow and for us, but it is in the best interests of Kodak Alaris as we strive to position ourselves as an independent company."

He said the company, which makes photographic paper products used in both the professional and consumer imaging businesses, would ensure other options are looked at for the employees, that people are appointed to other positions and that those leaving the company are well supported.

Mr McGowan said: "This is in no way a reflection on our employees who have worked diligently and tirelessly to meet our customers needs.

"Manufacturing has done all they can to manage the cost base as production values have changed over the past years.

"We haven't got a viable option going forward."

Dependent on the outcome of the consultation process, the site will stop production by the end of October with limited operations continuing until November.

A recommissioning and remediation process will then begin for the site.

Mr McGowan added: "A lot of people have been working for the company for a long time and we value that."