Mining firm Rio Tinto to sell off smelting plant in Lochaber
The company, which employs about 170 people, revealed its plans to staff on Friday morning.
Mining multinational Rio Tinto has revealed plans to sell its aluminium smelting plant near Fort William.
The firm began a review of the operation in January and is now in talks with a potential buyer.
Rio Tinto, which employs about 170 people in Lochaber, told staff on Friday morning.
A spokesman for the firm said: "Following a thorough review of all options, we have today advised our employees that we have concluded that divestment provides the best potential for a long-term and sustainable future for the operations, its employees and the development of economic activities around Fort William.
"We are continuing discussions with a preferred bidder for a potential sale of the entire operation.
The British-Australian firm has made $6.2bn worth of cuts over the last three years.