A major cyder company’s managing director has said plans for a multi-million pound investment in its production facilities are still ongoing.

Aspall Cyder’s Des Smith has said that no applications, formal or informal, had been withheld and that a follow up consultation would be held once the plans for a new press room, which will be used to create apple juice, had been developed.

The company, based in the village of Aspall, near Debenham, wants to spend £6million to boost its output by nearly four times.

The company, which also produces vinegar and was founded in 1722, is best known for making cyder.

The blueprint for the centre includes a new press room, which would cover an area of almost 1,800 square metres and a storage room of nearly 4,000sq m.

It would allow the company to produce 10million litres of apple juice a year, compared to its current 2.5m litre output.

Mr Smith said: “The plans are still in development and nothing is finalised yet.

“We’re looking at all possible options and will continue to consult with the local community to take everyone’s opinions into consideration before submitting a formal planning application.

“If any member of the public wishes to see the plans or discuss it with us they are welcome to.

“We’re taking all opinions into account and looking at a variety of options, so nothing is confirmed yet.

“We are still developing the plans and considering all options consulting with the local community so it’s too early to say when the formal planning application will be submitted but the local community will be informed when we are ready to submit a planning application.”