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Future of "vital" Chieveley bakery saved by new site approval





Owners of Shepherds Bakery, Tony and Michele Manley, requested permission for a 450 sq. metre unit on greenfield land off Oxford Road, with the lease on its current unit in Chieveley High Street, from which it has operated since the late 1800s, not up for renewal this year.
The couple argued that if this site was not approved, it was likely that the business would cease.
Addressing West Berkshire Council’s western area planning committee last Wednesday, Chieveley parish councillor Mike Belcher said: “Shepherd’s Bakery has been an integral part of the Chieveley community for 120 years, a valuable employer and contributor to the local economy.
“The Chieveley village design statement identifies the bakery as being a valuable asset to the community...its part of our heritage.
“The parish council is concerned about the AONB but on balance we feel that this is an exceptional circumstance. We give this proposal our full support.”
Chieveley resident Mike Hutchinson said: “The bakery helps to make Chieveley a truly vibrant village.
“[It’s] not just a bakery, not just a place to work, but a part of Chieveley’s DNA.”
The bakery was further praised for its role in providing part-time employment and work experience placements to pupils at nearby Down House School, while apprenticeships for school leavers are also on offer.
The vast majority of full-time positions are filled by local residents, including from Chieveley, Thatcham and Midgham.
Concerns were put to the committee on increased vehicle movements, odours and noise due to the increase in floor space from the bakery’s current ... unit, however Mr Manley said he had no plans to expand the business and that the larger floor space allowed them to provide better staff facilities under one roof, such as a shower area and changing rooms.
A condition requiring the building to be demolished if the bakery closed was also removed, on the grounds that it would make securing a loan for the build almost impossible, while it could continue to provide local employment as another business.
Hilary Cole (Con, Chieveley) said: “I think it’s absolutely vital that this business is allowed to move into purpose built premises.
“I have not once had a complaint from any resident either as a parish or district councillor about the noise level or the smell from the [existing] bakery.
“I don’t think this bakery will provide the level of nuisance that objecting residents fear or cause any significant harm to the area.”
Councillors voted unanimous in favour of the unit.



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