Drinks giant Carlsberg is planning to close a historic brewery with the loss of 170 jobs.

The company blamed falling consumption, higher duties and regulatory pressure for the decision to shut its Leeds site in 2011.

Consultation with the workers will start immediately and Carlsberg said it will seek to redeploy staff where possible as well as help others find new jobs.

There has been a brewery on the site in the city since 1822.

Nick Webb, supply chain director of Carlsberg UK, said: "We are announcing the closure proposal more than two years in advance so that our employees are able to prepare for the future.

"We have to consider difficult decisions to remain competitive in the current environment and we regret the risk to the jobs of our employees."

Mr Webb added: "Although the business has remained robust in tough market conditions, this proposed move is vital to ensure Carlsberg UK remains a strong and sustainable business in the future."

The brewery produces Tetley and Carlsberg beer and is one of two owned by Carlsberg. The other site is at Northampton.

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