Halal poultry producer to expand Preston plant

Preston poultry processor Gafoor Pure Halal has won planning permission to expand its chilling and storage facilities. 

The business sells halal poultry to a wide range of specialist stores, butchers and wholesalers, but also has some exposure on supermarket shelves. 

Its application to extend the plant was approved by Preston councillors, with 145 letters of support received, against seven opposing the plans. 

See also: Read more about Gafoor’s plans for expansion

A statement, submitted to planners by the company’s architects, describes Gafoor’s processing plant as a “self-contained site for the weighing, unloading and processing chickens”. 

“The development and growth of the company over the last few years now means that it requires more factory space to ensure the long-term viability of its business.” 

It also lists ways in which the plant, near Preston city centre, prevents odours escaping, one of which being a negative air pressure ventilation system. 

It is understood work will begin on the extension this year.

A spokesman for the firm said it would lead to more jobs in the area, and that the development was about “doing things better”. 

“The main purpose is to create a larger chilling and storage area. But it will also free up space on the shop floor. 

“That will give us more flexibility to innovate and invest in state-of-the-art equipment,” he added.