Warburtons has been given the go-ahead to build a research and development (R&D) centre in Bolton.

Bolton Council has approved a planning application by the baker to add a two-storey 2,278sq m R&D centre to its existing headquarters and bakery at Hereford Street.

The centre will be sited outside the secure perimeter of the HQ and bakery, and will have “more of an open campus feel”.

“As an ambitious business, Warburtons are proud to be the number one bakery brand in the UK, but have ambitions to become Britain’s best food business,” stated the application.

“The new R&D facility will be a key development, which will ensure the company continues to innovate and lead the bakery food sector, sustaining the company’s well-respected image as a dedicated family business.”

The centre will be occupied by around 40 people and used for testing and experimentation of new baked goods, said Warburtons in the application.

The ground floor will include a large test bakery and R&D space, a milling room, dry ingredients store, cold/frozen stores and staff shower and changing areas. Invited guests will be able to discuss new ideas and products in a meeting area. The first floor will mainly be administration offices and meeting spaces.