CHEMICAL workers in Northwich could be forced to take industrial action following the devastating news that Ineos Chlor is to axe hundreds of jobs.

A total of 63 redundancies were confirmed on Thursday by the Belgian-based company, which plans to shut down its chlorine cell rooms in Lostock.

But many more workers are also facing an uncertain future after it was revealed that up to 450 jobs will go from Ineos Chlor's other sites, which include Holford Brinefield and its electrode cutting plant in Winnington.

The announcement comes just two months after Ineos Chlor took over ICI's Chlor-Chemicals businesses as part of a £325 million deal.

During those negotiations ICI said the new owners had pledged to guarantee the terms and conditions of its workforce over the next four years.

But on Thursday Ineos director Russ Whelan, said they were planning to negotiate new terms, putting the future of the remaining employees in doubt.

"It is regrettable that cutting costs in this case means jobs have to be reduced," he said.

"We shall seek to achieve this through voluntary means as far as we can, although this may not be possible in every case."

Workers have already met trade union officials to discuss their future and possible industrial action following the threat of redundancies.

GMB and other union representatives will now be locked in talks with Ineos until a 90-day consultation period expires at the end of May.

Clr Bob Mather, leader of Vale Royal Borough Council, said: "The company recognises that the changes will be painful especially for the individuals who are affected and I would therefore offer whatever assistance the borough council can to help those who are affected by the changes."