Plans to expand the Graham’s dairy factory in Cowdenbeath have been submitted to Fife Council officials, bringing an extra 25 jobs to the area.

The expansion would mean an increase in cheese production to meet growing demand, with 269 sq mtr being added to the site nearest to Perth Road.

The company have said additional vents will have acoustic controls “to ensure noise levels are kept to an acceptable baseline.” A full assessment of potential noise sources has also been undertaken to accompany the application.

In their planning statement, Graham’s say they employ 256 full time staff at the Cowdenbeath factory, which produces a range of soft cheeses for products across Scotland and the UK.

Images show the proposed area of the expansion (in red), together with the positioning of 2 x 7m water tanks (blue).

In their acoustic report which accompanies the planning application, MR Acoustics assess the extension will be approximately 10dB below that of the existing cottage cheese building.

Some local residents in the area have had frustrations and complaints over noise at the Glenfield factory as it has expanded significantly over the years, with the company taking action in 2021 to address noise levels.

The business talked about the huge surge in demand for cheese products from ‘health-conscious Gen Z’ in 2024, where sales were up 40%.

Locals have until Tuesday 2nd September to comment on the expansion plans before Council officials make their decison. You can read and comment on the application by clicking here.