The Planning Committee of Herefordshire County Council has today approved a planning application for workers' accommodation at S&A Produce’s site in Marden.

The decision follows an extensive process of consultation with Herefordshire County Council, Marden Parish Council and local residents regarding the future of S&A’s operations at Brook Farm, Marden.

In May 2009, planning permission for polytunnels on the site was granted - but consent for workers' accommodation was refused on the grounds of scale and form.

In December 2009, the company submitted updated proposals for accommodation which include a reduction in accommodation capacity from 1,000 people to 852 people, and the removal of ‘pods’, ensuring all accommodation will comprise caravans and dormitories.

Frank Green, managing director at S&A, said: “This was a very important planning decision for S&A and we are delighted with the outcome of today’s meeting.

“Seasonal workers are vital to our business. We could not continue our operations without them and I am pleased we now have the permissions we need to be able to provide suitable accommodation for them.

“Since the refusal of our workers' accommodation plans back in May 2009, we have taken on board local feedback and have updated our proposals for Brook Farm in a way we believe is in line with the expectations of local people. The plans which have been approved today will improve current facilities and address the concerns of the local community and the Council’s Planning Committee.

“Having recently received planning approval for operations at Brierley and for polytunnels at Marden, today’s decision to grant consent is the final element we needed to secure a long-term future for S&A and its employees in Herefordshire.

“Today’s decision will go a long way towards providing us with a sustainable future, where we can invest in the business, make environmental improvements and provide employment and accommodation for our workers, safe in the knowledge that we have support from the local council.”

Topics