UNPLEASANT smells and noise emanating from a Beaminster factory should be reduced once redevelopment works have finished company bosses have promised.

At a recent town surgery meeting councillors Janet Page and Christopher Turner were deluged with residents concerned about problems at the town centre site.

They arranged a meeting with Dr Neil McInnes, of Danisco, and told him that while the firm's significant investment in the site and its status as an employer was much appreciated, there had been many complaints.

The councillors told him they understood the nature of building works meant the firm would generate noise, but asked that every effort was made to keep it to a minimum. The firm makes food products called antimicrobials, used to protect food.

Dr McInnes said the installation of effective soundproofing in its new buildings was a top priority for the company and once building works are complete, by November 9, residents should expect to hear very little noise, if any from the site.

He said a deodoriser had been added in an attempt to reduce the smells but unfortunately that too gave off a smell which some found unpleasant.

He promised that once the new processing equipment was up and running there would be no odours from the site.

Town council chairman Janet Page said: "We had a very positive and informative meeting at Danisco and based on what we heard and saw we are confident that the company is making every effort to be a good neighbour. We wish them every success with their new processing equipment and look forward to a noise and odour free future."

Dr McInnes was similarly positive about the outcome of the meeting. He said: "I welcomed the opportunity to meet with town councillors as I was only too well aware that our redevelopment works have, regrettably, caused nuisance and annoyance to some of our neighbours.

"We will continue to do all we can to play an effective, but not intrusive part in the town's welfare and prosperity."