The private building firm has a long list of retail customers, which include Asda, B&Q and Boots, but is bracing itself for falling workloads.

The builder has not specified how many jobs are at risk.

A company spokesman said: “We are in the early stages of a consultation process that will eventually determine the extent of any reductions and the timescale.

“We’re still in a strong financial position, we are doing this in response to some project delays and the current economy. This is so we can continue to develop and deliver in the future.”