Kingswinford brick factory to close

More than 30 jobs are at risk after a historic brick company announced the closure of its factory in Kingswinford.

Officials from Ibstock Brick today said 31 workers at the site, in Tansey Green Road, had been informed of the decision.

Consultation is now taking place with employees regarding potential redundancies at the factory although bosses said some may be offered relocation to other sites.

Bosses today blamed the closure of the factory on tough trading conditions leading to a decline in demand for bricks.

They said the drop in business had been ongoing in recent years and a rethink of operations was necessary.

Managing director of the company Wayne Sheppard said: "We today announce the closure of our Stourbridge factory in the West Midlands.

"Due to reduction in the demand for bricks in recent years and the need to balance sales and production while maintaining operational efficiency from our factories we have taken this decision."

The company, formed in the 1800s, has not yet confirmed a date for the closure.