JOBS are under threat with Arnold Clark poised to close one of its Greenock dealerships, the Tele can reveal.

Bosses at Arnold Clark Vauxhall in Port Glasgow Road today confirmed they have launched a consultation process with staff.

It's believed around 20 staff are affected.

The company say they have been hit by the impact of the coronavirus shutdown.

Eddie Hawthorne, chief executive group managing director, said: "Like all businesses, Arnold Clark has been impacted by the effects of COVID-19 and we will take time to assess our business and restructure where appropriate.

"I can confirm that there is a proposal in place for our Vauxhall dealership in Greenock not to reopen, however we are currently in a period of consultation with our employees there which will look to assess the viability of reopening.

"Our goal is, as always, to support our employees as best as we can through this period.

"Ultimately, our employees are the heart of our business, and they’re the reason we’re able to offer the high standard of customer care that we do.

"We’re working hard to ensure as few employees as possible are affected as a result of this crisis."

The company's Volkswagen and Ford dealerships along the A8 are not affected by the consultation.

Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan says the news about the Vauxhall showroom and garage is a big blow.

He is urging the firm to do a u-turn.

Mr McMillan told the Telegraph: "I am deeply concerned about the impact that job losses will have at any business in Inverclyde, however such a prominent one on Port Glasgow Road, employing a large number of people, is a massive blow.

"I can very much understand the financial pressures on businesses at present as a result of COVID-19.

"However, it should be the priority of any company to do its upmost to keep people in employment.

“If any business is struggling and considering redundancies, please come and speak to me or reach out to Scottish Enterprise to see if there is any support on offer that may help you.

"It’s important to remember that in order for companies to prosper after lockdown ends, we need people in employment and making money, so we can support the economy.

"If people are out of work, they have less money to spend.

"I would caution all businesses to be mindful of this.

"Specifically regarding Arnold Clark, I have written to Eddie Hawthorne asking for more details and for them to reconsider closing the Vauxhall dealership in Inverclyde.”