Wienerberger, one of the largest brick making companies in Britain, is to close two plants as a result of the current housing market slowdown.
Around 80 jobs will be lost when the Devon Steer Point and Surrey Ewhurst sites cease production.
Chief executive Wolfgang Reithofer has suggested he may be forced to temporarily close further sites should the deterioration continue.
“It seems there is underlying demand, but the problem is financing, not only first-time buyers but more importantly the second-time buyer. It is a question of finance and this has impact. It will impact the strategy of housebuilders. They will not start new projects or will delay some other project,” he said.
