BUSINESS support agency Business Link North West will shut down for good at the end of November.

The agency has begun a consultation process with its remaining 136 staff and is proposing redundancies will be staggered over the next few months.

Although the organisation is Preston-based, it does employ a number of people in Merseyside.

Business Link was funded by the Northwest Development Agency, but the Government austerity measures have led to a major restructuring of business support.

It currently offers a free business support and information service for firms and individuals in Merseyside, Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester and Lancashire. Business Link managing director Donna Edwards said: “We will work closely with our staff, Government, the NWDA and other stakeholders to ensure that there is a managed closure of the regional service by November, 2011, as well as a smooth transition to any new services that emerge.

“Continued support for customers during the transition to the Government’s new business improvement framework is paramount, and Business Link Northwest remains open for business.

“Telephone and face-to-face advisers continue to work with growing businesses across the region, and free and impartial advice is available for those looking to start their own business.”

A new business improvement framework will be established to provide information and guidance to businesses and start-ups.