Jamie Oliver has finally received the official go-ahead to open a pop-up takeaway bakery on the grounds of his £6 million estate in Essex.
The celebrity chef had been eager to launch the project weeks ago, but a planning hiccup delayed the process until now.
A Dream Delayed
Oliver had hoped to welcome customers at the start of August, offering freshly baked treats, sandwiches, and coffee from a converted stable block at Spains Hall.
However, council planners missed their initial deadline to approve the project, and to make matters worse, a neighbour had not been properly consulted.
This oversight pushed the launch back by several weeks.
Green Light from the Council
Planners at Braintree District Council have now granted permission, allowing Oliver to run a month-long trial any time over the next year instead of being tied to August.
Officials praised the bakery for the potential social and economic benefits it could bring to the rural community, including short-term job opportunities and increased local tourism.
Community Concerns and Traffic Issues
While there were some concerns about extra traffic, the council pointed out that the impact would be similar to the site’s former use as a wedding venue.
Importantly, no objections came in from local residents or the parish council, which helped clear the way for approval.
Inside the Bakery Plans
The stable block itself requires no building changes, as it already has toilets, a staffroom, and a kitchen.
Deliveries will arrive three times a week by lorry, and parking has been arranged for up to 26 vehicles, with extra space for overflow if needed.
Public access will be limited to the main open-plan room and toilet facilities on the ground floor.
A Piece of History
Spains Hall, where the bakery will operate, is a Grade I listed manor dating back to around 1570.
The estate has only been owned by three families since the Middle Ages and became Oliver’s home in 2019.
The stable block and coach house, built in the 18th century, have since hosted weddings and events.
Life at Spains Hall
Oliver and his wife Jools live in the 12-bedroom manor with their five children—Daisy Boo, Poppy Honey, Buddy Bear, Petal Blossom, and River Rocket.
The property features 10 bathrooms, a games room, a great hall, tennis courts, lakes, and even a Tudor-era gazebo known as The Prayer House.
More Than Just a Home
The chef has previously carried out restoration work on the estate, reviving it from disrepair.
He has also used Spains Hall as a location for his cookery school, inviting guests to take classes with his team and enjoy ingredients fresh from the garden.
What’s Next for Oliver’s Bakery Project?
With permission now in hand, Oliver can choose when to run his bakery trial over the next 12 months.
If the one-month experiment proves successful, the project could pave the way for a more permanent food venture on the estate.
For now, fans will be keeping an eye on when the doors to his countryside pop-up will finally open.
