Earby factory move ‘will benefit everyone’ (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Earby factory move ‘will benefit everyone’

11:00pm Wednesday 29th August 2012 in News By Peter Magill, Chief reporter

A NEW factory and housing estate will secure the future of a leading West Craven employer, say company bosses.

Management at Wardle Storeys insists that the replacement of the Grove Mill plant in Earby will provide a better outlook for neighbours.

And it would safeguard 250 jobs at the Pendle site, where polymer films and coated fabrics are made for a variety of industries, with new production facilties being introduced.

Nelson-based Barnfield Construction has drawn up proposals for the warehousing and offices scheme, which will be ruled upon by the West Craven area committee on Tuesday at the same time as linked plans to demolish much of the Grove Mill factory.

Planning agent Daniel Jackson said the existing accommodation at Wardle Storeys was not suitable for a 21st century operation.

He added: “The proposed works will enable Wardle Storeys to remain competitive and secure important local jobs.

“In order to undertake this investment, an area to the south of the site will be released for residential development.

“This will be a more appropriate use of the land than the current factory, and will link well with the existing residential area of Earby.”

The warehouse would be situated to the east of the present accommodation and the offices around the western end.

An extra 40 car parking spaces would be provided.

Land to the south of the current site will be released for housing. Previously the developers have talked about 74 homes for the area but no new firm figure has been announced.

County highway engineers have welcomed the fact that industrial traffic would be removed from Old Lane, as a result of the plans.

Recommending approval for the application, planning officer Helen Garnett said: “The warehouse area would be no greater in height than the surrounding buildings and wouldmirror the length and width of adjoining structures.”