GE Renewable Energy is to close a blade manufacturing plant in Little Rock, Arkansas.

The company announced on Tuesday it will close the facility, which is operated by subsidiary LM Wind Power and employs around 470 people.

A company spokesperson cited declining demand for blades produced at the location as the reason for the closure. The plant makes 44 and 62-metre units.

“We understand that this is a difficult time to announce this decision and are taking a number of steps to provide additional support for our employees during this time, including continued pay for a minimum of four months,” a spokesperson said.

“We will also pay their health insurance premiums for an additional six months to ensure they have coverage through at least the end of the year."

The Little Rock site has been operational since 2007.