Cemex proposes Barrington plant closure, 87 jobs to go

Cemex has announced proposals to close one of its cement manufacturing plants in Barrington, Cambridgeshire, which could result in the loss of 87 jobs.

The proposed move is part of a plan to rationalise the company's manufacturing in the UK by transferring part of Barrington's production to plants at Rugby in Warwickshire and South Ferriby in North Lincolnshire.

Cement manufacturing at Barrington involves feeding wet raw materials, mainly limestone and clay, into the cement kiln. Cemex said this traditional process requires more energy to manufacture the product than the process used at its other two plants.

If the plant does close, Barrington could be turned into a depot used to service customers in East Anglia, which would sustain 10 jobs at the plant.

Commenting on the decision, President of Cemex UK, Gonzalo Galindo, said: “Barrington cement plant has been producing cement for nearly 80 years, and it is with considerable regret that we are now making this proposal, which could lead to job losses and the closure of a chapter in Barrington’s history.

"The current economic climate has driven us to implement efficiencies in all areas of our business, and the closure of Barrington’s kiln could help to secure the future of our cement manufacturing business in the UK. We will uphold our obligations to this site, including any future restoration commitments.”