Potential in former Oscar Mayer factory in Chard discussed

Oscar Mayer closed its factory on the A358 Furnham Road in Chard in August 2021 at the cost of 860 jobs, with the company arguing it was too expensive to modernise the existing buildings within the site.

Earlier this year, two blazes occurred at the vacant site. After the most recent fire, a police investigation was launched, with the cause determined to be deliberate by the authorities.

In 2024, another large fire was started deliberately.

In light of this, MP of South Somerset Adam Dance has acknowledged how concerning these situations have been for nearby residents and is in discussions with the owners.

He recently visited the site to see the situation on the ground following the incidents, saying in a post on Facebook that ‘it is clear the current state of the site is having an impact on the local area and putting pressure on our emergency services.”

The meeting was to allow him to understand both the challenges and the potential for the site going forward.

He said: “It was important to visit the Oscar Mayer site and see first-hand the impact it is having on the local community.

 “The current condition of the site is clearly contributing to antisocial behaviour and placing pressure on emergency services, which is a real concern for residents.”

According to Mr Dance, there are proposals to redevelop the area, which could bring new jobs and investment into Chard – something he will be following up on.

He said: “There is also a clear opportunity here to bring the site back into use and deliver jobs and investment for the town.

“I will be working with all parties to help move things forward and ensure we find a positive solution for the community.”