Arla Foods Submits Plans for Felinfach Production Building
Arla Foods has submitted plans to Ceredigion County Council for a new building at its Felinfach facility. The proposed unit would be constructed on a brownfield section of the former Volac site in the Aeron Valley.
The development would contain production areas, staff offices, laboratory facilities, storage silos and tanks. The application also covers improvements to the existing drainage system and a pedestrian bridge linking the proposed building with the current production areas.
Arla held a public consultation in June, attended by about 30 local residents. A report accompanying the application said that feedback from the consultation was “overwhelmingly positive”.
An initial ecological survey found that the existing buildings had limited potential for bat roosts, while signs indicated that birds had used the site for nesting. The report recommended further surveys. It also identified a small stream connected to the Afon Aeron, which is designated as priority river habitat.
Himalayan balsam was found in large quantities just beyond the southern boundary. The plans state that measures will be used to prevent pollution of the watercourse and to stop the plant spreading beyond the site. Demolition would be scheduled so that active bird nests were not disturbed.
Arla acquired Volac two years ago and took over the operation of neighbouring Sensient Flavors earlier this year. In a March announcement, the Danish company said that developing the site formed part of its investment plans and would increase operational capacity. It said the investment would also give AFI full control of critical infrastructure and utilities, supporting business continuity.
Anne-Sophie Hoff, site director at AFI Felinfach, said that extending the existing footprint would increase processing capability and create a more resilient operation. She described the application as a milestone for the local team and said the company recognised the importance of the site to the surrounding community.
