UP TO 300 ICI workers are to lose their jobs because of cost-cutting, management have confirmed.
Talks were staged on Thursday between unions and management over the £30 million Project Solo cutback initiative.
Workers' representatives told ICI that they were unhappy at the way the job losses were first announced at the turn of the year - many staff found out via the local media.
Terry Mellor, GMB regional organiser, said the meeting was held amid union fears that ICI management were not consulting staff over the cutbacks.
"They have not been consulting with us so we have told them that that may be unlawful," said Mr Mellor.
He added that MP Derek Twigg had thrown his full weight behind union attempts to compromise over job losses.
ICI said in a statement said that it hoped "a significant proportion" of the job losses would be voluntary.
People let go would also be supported in attempts to find other work.
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