Residents urged to look to the future over Cadbury's site

We must look to the future _ that was the message that came out of today’s public meeting over the closure of the Cadbury’s factory.

Keynsham’s MP Dan Norris called the meeting to discuss the impact on the town of the closure of the chocolate making plant.

B & NES councillor Adrian Inker told the meeting: “We must recognize the battle to keep the factory open has been lost, now we have just one opportunity to get it right. I would like to see mixed development there.”

Town councillor Tony Crouch said: “We are where we are and we have to look forward and see what can be done with the Somerdale site. It will be part of the considerations in the Local Town Plan.”

North Somerset Cricket League vice president Dennis Payter voiced his concern over the future of sporting facilities at the site. He said: “Cadbury’s said they would leave a legacy for the people of Keynsham.

“I don’t know if Kraft is willing to keep that commitment. Somerdale has the biggest privately-run sporting complex in the region. We must do all we can to keep it. Once the playing fields are gone they will be lost forever .

“It is the sporting hub of  the town and it is vital we don’t lose them. I cannot see that local authorities would fill the void with new sports pitches.”

Keynsham Methodist Church Pastor Rachel Borgars, said: “Where will people gather if there is no Fry Club any more? I am also concerned about the people who are being made redundant. On behalf of all the churches our doors are always open it people want to talk and see a friendly face in this time of difficulty.”

Mr Norris said: "Kraft’s announcement this week that they will stick with Cadbury’s plans to close Somerdale has been a very bitter blow for Keynsham.

“Keynsham people worked together to do everything they possibly could to prevent this closure, and I know they will now be just as determined to shape the future of this proud town.”

Mr Norris said he was arranging an urgent meeting with Kraft bosses.