DIY retail giant B&Q is closing its Runcorn warehouse operation after more than 20 years, with the loss of up to 150 jobs.

The company leases the site in Aston Lane from DHL and is expected to pull out in July.

A spokesperson for DHL Supply Chain said: “Following a recent re-tender process, B&Q has confirmed its intention to remove its business from the Preston Brook operation and distribute the work across the remaining B&Q network.

“As Preston Brook is a multi-user operation, the site will remain open to service its other customers.”

Staff who are affected will shortly enter into consultation with the company and union representatives to discuss the impact of the announcement.

The DHL spokesman added: “Unfortunately, the prospect of redundancies cannot be ruled out.

“Both DHL and B&Q thank staff for their ongoing commitment at this time and stress that the decision in no way reflects on the quality of work at the site.”