The 200 plus lorry drivers and engineers, who are members of Unite, have rejected a pay offer of 2.5% for this year.

Unite added that “the workforce is deeply unhappy about the high handed management style and a marked lack of dignity at work.”

Drivers deliver dry cement to major sites and merchants across the country.

The ballot will open on Friday 10 September and close on Friday 23 September. If members vote for strike action industrial action could begin this October.

Unite national officer Adrian Jones said: “Our members are simply not going to accept a pay offer which amounts to a pay cut in real terms.

“With the ongoing driver shortage, our members are seeking a pay increase which recognises their hard work and dedication.

“If strikes do occur then it will have major implications for the construction industry. Supplies of cement will quickly run out, which will result in projects being delayed.”