A BUSINESS is rising again after it was forced to make way for the multi-million pound Sadlers Farm bypass.

The bulldozers are set to move in on the original Sadlers Farm Feeds site, which was compulsory purchased by Essex County Council as part of the £63million road improvements at the A13.

This meant the end for the store’s five staff, as well as the large customer base of farmers and pet owners, built up over 29 years.

However, the change has also provided a new beginning for former manager Tracey Dowell, 45, who opened a new animal feed store in Benfleet with friend Jackie Lengden.

Called T and J Feeds, the new shop, in Kents Hill Road, Benfleet, will also employ staff from the previous store.

Tracey, of Pound Lane, Bowers Gifford, said: “I was so pleased when Jackie came in and offered to help. I couldn’t afford to do it on my own.

“It’s great to retain something of the legacy of the old store.

“Everyone worked together so well, it was such a shame people had to lose their jobs when we were doing quite well business wise.”

Sadlers Farm Feeds, based in Sadlers Hall Farm, off London Road, had been threatened with closure since the route of the bypass was revealed two years ago.

Owner Janice Haddow had hoped to move the store to nearby premises on the Sadlers Hall Farm site, however a new building was never agreed because of problems getting planning permission. Eventually the firm ran out of time and it was forced to close in September.

Mrs Haddow decided to retire from the business due to ill health.

Jackie, 35, of Leigh, said: “It’s a shame Janice hasn’t been able to continue, but hopefully we’ll be able to look after all the custom she helped build up over the years.”