Former Dorset Knobs factory could become housing
The Moores biscuits site at Morcombelake has been unused since 2006
Last updated 29th Jul 2024
The famous ‘Dorset Knobs’ factory at Morcombelake could be converted into eight homes.
A planning application for the change has been lodged with Dorset Council for the Bakery Lane site by Moores Biscuits Ltd, now based in Bridport.
It asks for seven two-bed properties, and one three-bed home with nine parking spaces between them, similar to the amount of parking already on the site.
The site had been used as a bakery since 1880, until a fall in demand led to the business being moved in 2006.
Access to the site is directly off the A35 which the application say was previously used safely by large lorries.
Said the planning application: “The site lies disused as it no longer serves its purpose as the biscuit factory. As such, it is a distinct possibly that this prominent landmark which forms part of the region’s culinary heritage could fall into disrepair and face complete collapse.
“This application seeks consent for the conversion of the former bakery into 8no. dwellinghouses, including replacing the roof in its entirety. The scheme also seeks consent for the formation of parking spaces for 10 vehicles and also for the associated drainage works necessary to facilitate the conversion.”
The application says the income from the sale of the site is expected to be returned to the existing biscuit-making business with a future application to expand the Bridport site, creating new job opportunities.
Two public comments have been received on the plans so far, with comments remaining open until August 8th.
One says “Great idea, the building looks so sad as you drive by. The houses will Have great views! Good luck.”
The other, an immediate neighbour, says that whilst in favour of a sensitive redevelopment the plans submitted seem excessive:
“The lane is very narrow and the space outside our entrance and the bakery itself already quite restricted. Having so many other vehicles accessing the space on a regular basis, and needing to negotiate the access seems as if it would cause problems for all of us. Also, I’m concerned about the issue of overlooking, as it seems to me that the proposed flats and terraces would significantly overlook our garden, which is currently a secluded and tranquil place.”