The decision to close Richard Lees Steel Decking has been blamed on challenging market conditions with no clear sign of any recovery ahead.

It is another blow for the commercial building sector where key players are coming under increasing cost pressure from lack of orders.

A contractor told the Enquirer: “The problems of the constructional steelwork sector are well known and many erectors have gone out of business, but this is a dramatic development.”

Richard Lees Steel Decking has been a market leader in structural flooring for over 50 years and supplied Holorib and Superib floors to high profile UK and overseas projects like the Gherkin tower in London.

Existing contracts will be honoured with the business being wound down over coming months.

A company source said: “I can confirm we will close and the date being talked about is April.”

The firm’s managing director Richard Plant has personally written to key customers warning them of the decision.

He said: “It is regretful that Richard Lees Steel Decking have taken the decision to close the business.

“This has been a difficult decision but there is no sign of the market strengthening in the near future.”

He added: “I want to assure you that over the coming months, our focus remains on completing those contracts already underway and delivering the expectations of our clients.”