When food company Kraft took over chocolate producer Cadbury, it led to the closure of their Somerdale Factory located in the market town of Keynsham in 2011.
With the loss of such a big local employer, concerns were raised about future employment and the sustainability of social and sports facilities in the town.
Plans were subsequently drawn to redevelop the site and create an 89 hectare model neighbourhood. It is close to the town’s railway station, high street shops and has fantastic views of the River Avon.
The mixed use scheme is being brought forward by the St Monica Trust and Taylor Wimpey. Earlier this year, three of the retained 1920’s factory buildings opened as offices, a care home, and retirement flats.
Additionally, there will be an extra 700 new homes, a new school, other social facilities, as well as shops and restaurants.
It is hoped the redevelopment will demonstrate a reinvention of the factory, with all the ingredients in place to make it a successful scheme.