Councillors approved the work at the site on the Earlstrees Industrial Estate, which also included the installation of six new cereal storage silos on a 125m2 concrete base. Weetabix said the works would allow the business to improve its production facilities in Corby.
In a design document, submitted to the council as part of the proposal, Weetabix said: “The proposed new silos are sized and located to improve the cereal production requirements of Weetabix.
“They are located away from existing residential properties minimising the impact of noise and size on the neighbouring properties.”
Support the established business
Planning permission was granted to the manufacturer, on the basis that the proposal would satisfy demand choice and support the established business, continuing to make the business competitive.
“Arguably, the applicant's business remaining competitive would promote employment in the area,” said the council. “Support for the proposal allows the existing business to expand its array of products and remain competitive and local.”
The council’s approval of Weetabix’s proposal comes three months after the manufacturer announced it had drawn up plans to close one of its Corby factories.
‘Long-term investment strategy’
It said that, as part of a “long-term investment strategy”, proposals were in place to upgrade its hot oat cereal, flake and extruded product lines at Corby into a single factory.
A company spokesman said while proposals were at an early stage, they could result in the loss of “small number” of roles. He added that Weetabix was evaluating options with employees to minimise any potential impact.
Meanwhile, in other planning permission related news, a new £17m meat processing facility to be built in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, was given the go-ahead by the local council last week.
