A Norwich-based factory that employs workers with disabilities could be saved from closure after bids were lodged to buy the facility.

But union leaders fighting to save the Remploy packaging plant on Raynham Street said any agreed takeover must safeguard its disabled workforce.

It comes after the factory was handed a bleak future by the government when plans were revealed to close 'non-viable' Remploy factories as part of a review of its £320m disability employment budget.

Trade union GMB said bidders were now being encouraged to put forward their final offers for the site – with a decision set to be made by July.

It was a move welcomed by Chloe Smith, Conservative MP for Norwich North, who encouraged businesses to table offers for the factory, which employs 36 disabled people.

Glenn Holdom, GMB organiser, said: 'GMB members working at the Norwich Remploy factory and those who have supported them welcome this announcement and will continue to campaign to keep disabled workers at the heart of the Norwich factory.

'However, GMB will not tolerate any watering down of the commitment to keeping disabled workers at Norwich during the course of the tendering procedure. GMB will not be a ally of any company looking to side line disabled workers in Norwich.'

Ms Smith said: 'This is positive news. I have been in close touch with Remploy and industry to ensure a constructive solution. I have actively encouraged local firms to put in a expression of interest and I am pleased to see that businesses have taken up that challenge.

'My hope is that as many of the workers as possible can stay in sustainable employment and that there might be a future for the factory.'

Meanwhile, Clive Lewis, prospective parliamentary Labour candidate for Norwich South, said, 'This is great news and a real relief if it comes off in July.

'I guess that the devil will be in the detail as regards the fate of Remploy employees and the businesses they work in after the three year sweetener expires. A welcome reprieve if it comes off though.'