Site transformation underway for new Fisherman’s Friend factory

Remediation work is now underway to transform the site of the new multi-million-pound Fisherman’s Friend factory development in Fleetwood - readying it for construction to begin.

Blackpool headquartered Fox Group is carrying out the work, which includes vegetation clearance, site stripping, earthworks, cut-and-fill operations, and the import of more than 20,000 tonnes of aggregate to prepare the ground for the next phase of construction.

In a statement Fox Group said: “Following the successful completion of the enabling works, our remediation team is now transforming the site for Fisherman’s Friend’s new factory development.

“Supporting a business with roots dating back to 1865, and a brand recognised around the world, makes this project particularly rewarding. We look forward to sharing further updates as work progresses.”

The development, for the brand’s parent company Lofthouse of Fleetwood, has been hit by delays, according to local media reports.

Wyre’s planning committee gave the go-ahead for the state-of-the-art building, designed for the manufacture and distribution of the company’s iconic lozenges, in September 2023.

The firm bought the site from Associated British Ports (ABP) for an undisclosed sum after deciding that a new facility was needed.

Once completed it will have a total floor space of more than 387,000 sq ft and will include a main production area, warehouse, office block, staff canteen and parking.

Lofthouse is a major employer in the town and its Fisherman’s Friend menthol lozenges are sold across the globe. The family-owned business can trace its history in the town back to 1865.

Based on the Whitehills Business Park in Blackpool, Fox Group specialises in remediation, recycling, certified recycled aggregate supply, and circular construction solutions across the UK.