Sefton Council is supporting Bates Farms and Dairy Ltd to expand its business operations in Southport’s Birkdale area.

Subject to the Company obtaining planning permission, the Council will sell 0.75 acres of its freehold land at Broome Road to the Company. This will enable Bates’ to meet its need to create a larger yard for storage and existing delivery vehicles.

Cllr Marion Atkinson Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills said: “By making this land available to Bates Dairy, the Council would be supporting the growth of a family firm that has been in Southport for over 80 years and which provides a milk delivery service to thousands of local people, while providing 104 jobs within the local community.

“The ability to expand on the site will help secure local employer Bates’ future in the town and will mean the Company can invest and grow.

“Plus, the extra space will mean fewer on-site vehicle movements, which will benefit local residents.”

Part of a 22-acre, Council owned site at former Isle of Wight Farm, the land is identified in the Local Plan as a possible area for housing. Bates’ proposals for a small part of that area include the erection of a single-storey unit. Requirements for the development would include the Dairy erecting acoustic fencing and plans to deal with any resulting increase in surface water run-off.

Local residents would have an opportunity to have their say on the proposed expansion through the Council’s planning application process.