A SUCCESSFUL kitchen business has been given the go-ahead to extend its premises, despite concerns from residents.

FD Kitchens, in Gardner Road, Prestwich, can now build a two-storey extension to use as a drawing office and showroom.

Permission for the work was originally granted by town planners in 1995, but this had to be renewed in 2000 and again at Tuesday's meeting of the planning committee at Bury Town Hall.

And despite permission previously being given, the committee received 13 letters of objections and a petition protesting against the plans.

Nearby residents were concerned about the impact the development would have on their quality of life, particularly the extra heavy goods vehicles using Gardner Road.

They were also worried about parking in the area, and said that staff often parked in front of homes because the company does not have enough car parking spaces.

However, a representative for the company said the same number of people would be working at the site and there would be no extra traffic.

Councillors said they had to pass the plans because they were the same as those which had been given permission before.

Councillor Wilf Davison said: "Whilst I have sympathy for the residents and the problems they encounter, I do not think that turning down this application would stop the traffic and parking problems they already have. In fact, this might be a chance for the company to provide some parking spaces for its staff, which will not happen if we reject it. This company employs a substantial amount of people in Prestwich and Whitefield, and we should celebrate its success. I fully support the proposals."

The planning committee approved the plans, but added a condition that extra parking spaces should be provided for employees.

St Mary's councillors Keith Grime, Steve Treadgold and Maggie Gibb have supported a campaign by residents against the proposals.

Coun Grime left his seat on the planning committee when the matter was being discussed, but after the meeting he said: "We will do our best to facilitate dialogue between the residents and Mr Frank Durr, managing director of FD Kitchens. We realise FDK are important employers in Prestwich, but the concerns of residents need addressing in a constructive and co-operative fashion."