Optimis has successfully negotiated the retention of storage containers for Primrose Nurseries, Bedford

Optimis is delighted to have obtained planning permission for the retention of existing storage containers on land at Swineshead Road in Melchbourne, Bedford.

Blom’s Bulbs is an established, family owned and award-winning bulb growing business, which has won 65 gold medals at the Chelsea Flower show over the last 60 years. The business has been operating from Primrose Nurseries since the 1990’s.

Following the flooding of the existing storage building, five replacement steel containers were installed; however, concerns were raised about their industrial, utilitarian appearance. This retrospective planning application therefore also included the external cladding of the containers with timber and the insertion of openings.

Optimis successfully argued that the retention of the containers is required to provide storage for this long-established rural business, replacing a previous storage facility; that the location of the proposed container building is considered to be the most appropriate; and together with the introduction of external timber cladding, the proposal would result in a structure that is of acceptable visual appearance, in keeping with the rural setting. For these reasons, Bedford Borough Council granted consent.

Author: Claudia Dietz

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