Plans to axe 93 cement plant jobs

Staff could be offered the chance to relocate to Lancashire or Lincolsnhire

A cement company is planning to cut 93 jobs as it reduces its output "to a minimum" following a drop in orders.

Hanson Cement in Padeswood, Flintshire - formerly Castle Cement - will lose up to 56 jobs in production and 37 in distribution.

A company spokesman said a total of around 250 were currently employed, and a 90-day consultation was under way.

In October 2008, the company warned of possible job losses after a 20% drop in demand for its services.

On Tuesday, a spokesman said the plant was "reducing output to a minimum in light of the continuing downturn in the construction industry.

"We have had to make cut backs. Essentially we're a demand-led business.

"Our proposals are regrettable but vital to ensure we remain competitive in very difficult market conditions."

He added that the possibility of relocation for some staff to plants in Lincolnshire or Lancashire would be explored.

Last year, the company warned that it had to match its production with current demand.

As production had fallen by 20% this meant the same proportion of its delivery lorries were off the road doing nothing, it said.