THE BUILDING industry could be facing severe cement shortages this autumn if lorry drivers employed by a Bolton based firm vote for strike action.

The 200 drivers and engineers, employed by Westhoughton based Hanson, are involved in a pay dispute and have rejected an offer of a 2.5 per cent rise this year, as they say this would amount to a cut in real terms.

With an inflation rate of 3.9 per cent, Unite the unions says this seriously impact drivers' livelihoods.

Unite national officer Adrian Jones said: "Our members are simply not going to accept a pay offer which amounts to a pay cut in real terms.

"With the ongoing driver shortage, our members are seeking a pay increase which recognises their hard work and dedication.

"If strikes do occur then it will have major implications for the construction industry.

"Supplies of cement will quickly run out, which will result in projects being delayed."

Balloting opened on Friday September 10 and will close on September 23 with action to take place in October.

The 200-plus drivers supply dry cement to construction projects around the country, including Hinkley Point, HS2, Sellafield and Thames Tideway as well as various smaller projects.

This means that if strikes occur these projects will quickly run short of cement.

The Westhoughton branch of Hanson serves areas around Greater Manchester and North West Lancashire.

As well as pay, Unite says that drivers were unhappy about a "marked lack of dignity at work."

Mr Jones said: "Hanson’s is simply not giving its drivers the respect they deserve.

"This is apparent in their working conditions and their pay.

"The solution is in Hanson’s hands.

"The company needs to return to the negotiating table and demonstrate genuine changes to the way our members are managed and make an offer on pay that reflects the current challenges in the industry and the commitment our members give to the company.

"Unite is dedicated to advancing the jobs, pay and conditions of its members and will fight back against any efforts to diminish workers' living standards."

The firm however, still hopes to avert strike action and come to an agreement with the union.

Hanson UK CEO Simon Willis said: “Our negotiations are ongoing, so we are unable to give any further details concerning the discussions at this time.

“We are committed to arriving at an agreeable settlement so that we will be able to continue to supply our customers, as we have done throughout the pandemic and during the current levels of high demand for our products.”