Paving stone maker Marshalls is shutting two factories with the loss of 200 jobs as the collapse in demand from the new-build housing market continues to plague manufacturers.

The factories that will close are in Cannock, Staffordshire, and Sawley, Nottinghamshire.

Marshalls said it was unable to put a figure on the job losses, but trade unions said about 140 workers and up to 50 managers may be made redundant.

A spokesperson for Marshalls said: 鈥淐onsultations with employees are continuing. Wherever possible, they will be given the opportunity to apply for other vacancies within the Marshalls Group.鈥�

The company added the Sawley plant would be retained as a regional distribution centre.

Meanwhile, global materials giant Wolseley has axed the positions of UK managing director and HR director as part of continued cost-cutting measures.