WARBURTONS has been given the go-ahead to build a state-of-the-art research and development centre.

The world famous Bolton bakery wants to use the futuristic facility to test and develop innovative new products, following on from new favourites like the Giant Crumpet and Sandwich Thins.

The company, which has had a presence in the town for more than 140 years, says that more details on the project will be revealed shortly.

Tearmh Taylor, corporate and internal communications manager at Warburtons, said: “This Research and Development Centre is an exciting opportunity for Warburtons.

“We have always been committed to developing our family business locally and will share more information on this project in due course.”

The new two-story centre will be built next to the existing Warburtons’ facility in Hereford Street and house around 40 staff, all of which will be current employees working within the current bakery.

The ground floor will house a large test bakery, a milling room, food stores, and staff showers and changing areas, while the upper level with be predominantly used for administration offices and meeting spaces.

The statement submitted with the firm’s planning application said: “Warburtons experience and clear passion for this project has helped shape the design journey to develop a distinctive, sustainable and functionally efficient building.

“It will expand and enhance the Bolton bakery site with a new, state of the art facility creating a welcoming and inspiring sense of place for all.”