A bakery expansion project proposed for Lazonby, Eden, has the potential to create and secure 350 jobs within the village, according to claims made by Bells of Lazonby Ltd, a bakery firm spearheading the endeavor. The company has initiated two planning applications with the Westmorland and Furness Council to facilitate the proposed expansion.
One application focuses on the demolition of existing structures including a flour silo, along with the construction of replacement buildings and new extensions at the Edenholme Bakery. Described as a “tidying up” endeavor, this aspect of the project is expected to have minimal impact.
The second proposal outlines a more extensive plan, entailing the enlargement of the main bakery building, expansion of a gluten-free bakery facility, erection of a storage building, and reconfiguration of internal access roads and parking areas. This phase of the development is primarily situated on a greenfield site on the western periphery of the existing factory, shielded from much of the village’s view, yet visible to nearby residents.
According to Addis Town Planning, representing Bells, the development would unfold in three phases, with the new buildings maintaining a similar scale and appearance to the current structures, resembling commercial sheds akin to modern agricultural edifices prevalent in the district.
Tim Conder, the managing director of Bells, emphasized the potential long-term benefits for the business in Lazonby, stating, “After experiencing robust growth in recent years, we aim to establish a sustainable foundation for our operations here in Lazonby. This application aligns with our commitment to minimizing the visual impact on the village.”
Conder elaborated on the proposed developments’ strategic positioning behind existing structures, leveraging the natural topography to mitigate visual intrusion. Additionally, he highlighted the potential to consolidate storage onsite, thereby reducing vehicular traffic associated with goods transportation.
Despite voiced objections citing concerns about environmental impact, scale appropriateness for a village setting, and the modern design of the proposed structures, proponents argue that the expansion would bring economic benefits to Lazonby, including job creation and reduced heavy goods vehicle (HGV) traffic within the village. They contend that the proposed site lacks significant environmental significance.
The application is scheduled for discussion by the Lazonby Parish Council during its meeting on February 7th.