THE threat of strike action by local government workers has sparked fears it could have a "devastating effect" on services in west Wiltshire.

UNISON, the largest UK union, will formally ballot nearly 800,000 local government workers over whether to take industrial action in protest against changes to their pension scheme.

The action could result in up to 2,000 workers employed at Wiltshire County Council going on strike and an estimated 100 people employed by West Wiltshire District Council walking out in a protest planned for next month.

After hearing the news, west Wiltshire councillors have raised concerns about the effects strike action could have on services provided by the two authorities.

Vic Oakman, district councillor for Melksham North, said: "If they do go on strike it would have a devastating effect. People rely on a lot of the services."

Cllr Tom James, district council ward member for Trowbridge Adcroft, said: "It does not bear thinking about. We are a council that is pretty active in the local community, in all aspects of life.

"If they strike all the schools of expertise might not be there. It has to be a concern to us all and if it were not then we would not be much of a council.

"It will probably affect the people who need help the most. It is definitely worrying news. Benefits, social security and civil servants would all be affected."

Early ballots have shown the majority of union members are in favour of striking over the changes, which could see workers forced to work an extra five years, until they're 65, before receiving full pension entitlement.

The result of the official ballot, which takes place on Monday, is due by March 9. If a majority of members are in favour of strike action, dates for a walkout will be announced.

Sue Anderson, west Wiltshire Unison representative said the workers were campaigning to protect their interests.

She said: "We are trying to protect our career terms and conditions. The changes look like they will effect all of us and have major implications for the vast majority of us.

"The changes will raise the retirement age and cut benefits and will heap even more pressure on local government workers."

Louise Knox, spokesman for West Wiltshire District Council, said the authority would be able to cope with any strike action.

She said: "The union will keep us fully informed about the possibility of strike action and should it come to it we will make sure the appropriate actions are taken to ensure the front line services run as smoothly as possible."

A spokesman for Wiltshire County Council said: "We have been notified about the ballot for possible action but what action will be taken is not yet known.

"When we do know the results of the ballot we will take the appropriate action to protect essential services."