The Concrete Manufacturers Association has threatened to take strike action over the Androlykou quarry after its expansion was nixed in the Akamas local plan, it was revealed on Tuesday.

In its latest opinion on the risk assessment of the Akamas local plan, the environment department sought to address the concerns and demands of the association.

The department restricted the expansion of the quarry, subject to a review in three years.

That has caused outrage among those in the industry and they have now threatened to cease operations on September 16 unless the department reverses its decision.

They have warned that the Paphos district will be left without building materials.

On Tuesday, the department said their primary goal is the protection of the environment and birds – as well as issuing opinions on potential risks from projects and works.

It stressed that Akamas is one of the most important natural frameworks on the island and that any likely development in the area poses a real challenge.