ST HELENS glass maker Nippon Sheet Glass is to stop production at its Cowley Hill float glass line for at least three months
But the firm said it will have no impact on jobs at the plant.
They said it is aimed at reducing current stocks at the site,which provides glass for the construction and automotive sectors.
Staff have been informed that the line will be kept out of operation on'hot hold'from January 3 until April.
Hot hold means production ceases,but the furnace is maintained.
Matt Buckley,managing director Architectural Glass UK and Ireland,explained:"We are keeping the furnace going but stopping producing glass to take down stocks.
"It doesn't affect any jobs in terms of the hot hold.It might affect a small number of temporary staff,but in this situation we need all the same people to look after the furnace because it is staying hot and at the opposite end we need the same people in the warehouse to do distribution etc.
"Regarding the people in the middle,there are a number of duties we would look for them to perform."
He said the firm will start a review of costs in the new year,but added:"It is a separate exercise to the hot hold and part of our continual business process."
He said stocks are being reduced because this time of year is quieter than normal:"It is a quieter period regarding installation of glass in buildings."
The company's other float glass plant in the town's Greengate is not affected by the hot hold and will continue production,he said
