NEW job opportunities are set to open up as permission has been granted for an established firm to create a new purpose-built factory.
Anglia Maltings (Holdings), which owns maltsters EDME, has been given approval to develop the land at Horsley Cross, subject to conditions.
If the scheme is backed by Anglia Maltings (Holdings), it means an investment of £46.5million will be made to move EDME from its home of more than a century in Mistley High Street four miles away to a new base.
David Thompson, chief executive at Anglia Maltings (Holdings), said: “After 140 years operating in Mistley, we welcome the opportunity to continue with a purpose-built, state-of-the-art facility.
“The site doubles production capacity, supports new product development, enables growth in exports and deepens the intellectual property of EDME.
“Innovation is our life blood.
“The new site provides the right environment to develop new products, and the space and capacity to increase production and to introduce new processing techniques.
“If approved by the Anglia Maltings board, the gross cost of the investment is £46.5million, which represents a vote of confidence in the industry, our suppliers, our workforce, and our community.”
He added: “The proceeds from land sales to defray that cost are critical to the viability of the project.
“We at EDME are grateful to Tendring Council, and to the parish councils in Mistley and Horsley Cross for their support.”
EDME produces wholegrain, malted flours, flakes and kibbles, gluten-free flours, seed mixes, and sprouted grains for bakeries, confectioners and for breakfast cereal makers.
The approval from the council is subject to conditions.
Mary Newton, Tendring Council’s cabinet member for business and economic growth, welcomed the planning committee’s approval of the EDME application.
“As part of our Tendring4Growth approach, we welcome businesses who look to expand and grow within Tendring district, or relocate to our area, provided, of course, they comply with our planning policies,” she added.
“EDME is a fantastic firm, operating internationally and providing significant local employment and it is great to see the company wanting to expand and stay in Tendring where it has been since the late 19th century.
“It’s possible move to Horsley Cross underscores its commitment to its workforce and to maintaining its long association with the district.”
If all is agreed, construction is planned to start early next year with completion in 2022.
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