An embattled start-up could be forced to find a new home within 28 days after facing persistent complaints that smell and insect problems at its factory in Melbourne’s west are severely affecting trading and the wellbeing of workers in the area.

Bardee – an agritech company that uses insects in its production processes and previously secured $5 million in funding – is being taken to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal by Brimbank City Council over long-term issues at its Sunshine West factory, including offensive smells and fly infestations that have affected surrounding businesses.

Nearby traders say insects and odour are badly impacting the area. Jason South

Craig Kelly, who works next door to Bardee at a bathroom remodelling company, compared the smell to a rubbish tip.

“You’ve got guys working in the factory on machines … who are supposed to be concentrating on what they’re doing, and they’re shooing flies out the way.…