COUNCILLORS look set to approve a proposal by turkey giant Bernard Matthews to extend its factory site near Halesworth.The firm wants to expand two of its buildings to improve efficiency at the site in Upper Holton that has been in operation for more than 25 years.

COUNCILLORS look set to approve a proposal by turkey giant Bernard Matthews to extend its factory site near Halesworth.

The firm wants to expand two of its buildings to improve efficiency at the site in Upper Holton that has been in operation for more than 25 years.

Bernard Matthews wants to build the two extensions at its site off Scalesbrook Lane to increase creating extra processing capacity and consolidating packing. Planning officers are recommending the scheme for approval, subject to conditions.

A report by planning officers reads: “Although these two extensions are substantial buildings in their own right, in the context of the existing buildings on the site they are relatively minor extensions.”

It adds: “The application accords with development plan policies and would not appear to present any significant adverse impacts on the environment.”

No responses have been received from neighbours who have been consulted about the application.

The Beccles and Bungay Journal reported last week that up to 160 jobs will be lost at Bernard Matthews in a bid to improve efficiency. The firm announced plans to shift its frozen whole bird operations from Great Witchingham to its plant in Holton in early 2011.

The move is not expected to result in additional jobs at Holton but the company said some Great Witchingham workers could be offered alternative roles at the Suffolk plant.

Waveney District Council's development control committee will discuss the extension proposal on Wednesday.