More than 160 staff have been put on notice at the Rathbones bakery in Wigan owned by Morrisons.

As part of the retailer’s plans to grow production in its bakery division, Morrisons said it was looking to expand its site in Wakefield by 41,250 sq ft. But the plans meant it would close the Wigan site, where there is no room for expansion.

Morrisons said it would look to relocate as many staff as possible either to Wakefield or to other parts of its business.

“We have seen significant growth as a company in recent years and have big plans for the future,” said Morrisons group manufacturing director Martyn Fletcher.

“We need to be sure that we have the manufacturing facilities to equip us for this and after a detailed review of our operations we believe it is right to invest and grow our Wakefield facility.”

He added: “Given our strong manufacturing presence in the northwest of England, we are confident that many of our colleagues in Wigan will find alternative roles with us in the area.”