Food firm Princes to develop Long Sutton factory site
Global food processor and supplier Princes has 'futureproofed' its future in Long Sutton as plans for new warehouses have been approved.
The existing buildings at the Bridge Road site will be demolished and replaced with state-of-the-art raw materials warehouse and ingredient processing centre.
The new buildings will consolidate a number of engineering workshops, stores, warehouse spaces and cold store warehouses into one large warehouse.
It is reassuring news for the company's 498 permanent workers and more than 100 peak time agency staff.
A new car park, with controlled entry point in Hundreds Lane, is also part of the plan.
The new buildings will be up to 20m tall at the highest point and will be painted in 'sky' colours to minimise the effect on the landscape - something which considerably concerned Little Sutton Parish Council. The roof will also be 'broken up' to reduce the bulk and impact of the buildings.
Ian Hayes, representing Princes, told councillors: "These investments are a signal of our long-term commitment to Long Sutton, so we can become a more agile and responsive business."
Councillors agreed that it was good news that Princes want to stay in the district, being such a valuable local employer - Long Sutton councillor Chris Brewis pointed out that Premier Foods, who previously owned the site, were considering moving their operations to Slovakia.
An 3.5m acoustic barrier will installed along the eastern perimeter and an additional 2.5m acoustic barrier alongside the car park.
Cllr Nick Worth, South Holland District Council deputy leader and portfolio holder for growth and commercialisation, added: “These plans are great news for the district and will see significant investment and growth not only on the site but hopefully for the entirety of South Holland.
“Princes is a major employer for Long Sutton and the surrounding area and I am pleased that we have been able to support them with these developments. The potential for new job opportunities and benefits to other local businesses and infrastructure promises to be a great thing and further strengthens South Holland’s position as a vital cog in the region’s industrial and manufacturing machine.”
