A bakery that was created without getting planning permission first will be allowed to stay despite objections from neighbours.

Melo Bakery in Benskin Road, Watford, will have to meet strict planning conditions after its application was approved by the borough council's planning committee on Tuesday. (October 4).

The commercial bakery had begun operating recently inside a unit that had been out of use for some time.

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After a retrospective planning application to change the use of the building was made, nine residents complained saying the business was causing noise and smell issues. They said a “very noisy“ extractor fan was keeping them awake at night and they were forced to keep their windows closed.

Watford Observer: Circled is where the bakery is operating from. Image: Google MapsCircled is where the bakery is operating from. Image: Google Maps (Image: Google Maps)

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As part of the permission secured from the council, the bakery will need to remove its external flue and install a recirculating unit within two months. The council believes this change will minimise noise and odour disruption to an “acceptable” level for neighbours.

The applicant will also have to ensure there is no commercial activity outside of 8am-6pm on weekdays and none at weekends.  

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