A PLANNING application of a 'sensitive nature' submitted by a factory complex near Penrith to double the size of one of its processing buildings has been given the green light.

Omega Proteins, located to the south west of the town, has been granted permission to replace one of its two tipping sheds with a new building that would double its capacity, after the decision was approved by Westmorland and Furness Council management committee.

The application is separate from other applications submitted by Leo Group, which owns the Omega Proteins factory, regarding new chimney stacks.

The Development Management Committee Report said: "The scheme seeks to replace an existing industrial building at Omega Proteins for the loading of feathers into a processing plant.

"The existing feather tipping shed allows for one trailer at a time to unload product whereas the new building will double this capacity.

"The process takes place within an enclosed building.

"The application is reported to committee due to the sensitive nature of proposed developments at a site which attracts significant local interest due to the frequency of occasions on which unpleasant odours are believed to emanate from the site across to Penrith."

The new building would extend out 24 metres from the feather processing building, and would replace a shed which currently extends out by 13 metres.

A supporting statement submitted with the application said: "The existing tipping shed is ageing and in need of replacement.

"It can accommodate one trailer load.

"The larger replacement shed would provide space for two trailers positioned side-by-side within the building."

Penrith Town Council initially objected to the application due to insufficient information, but following a further submission by Omega Proteins, the town council supported the application as it was 'materially acceptable and moves the operation to be more technically sound with better odour management'.

The report acknowledges the 'legacy of complaints' regarding odour from the site.

It says: "This particular development however does not involve the processing of incoming raw material through application of heat and pressure which is typically the source of the stronger odours.

"Still, the concurrent applications due to be determined at this committee meeting for new chimney stacks are designed to improve the onsite control and containment of odour, which can only have a positive effect on the site’s impacts on neighbouring amenity."