Plans to convert a former Bernard Matthews turkey shed in an east Suffolk village into five new homes have been withdrawn after objections from nearby residents.

The former poultry unit at Hill Farm, Low Road, Ubbeston, has stood unused for 20 years since Bernard Matthews Foods stopped production at the 3.5-acre site and subsequently sold it for £25,000.

Documents were submitted to East Suffolk Council seeking prior approval of proposals to convert the agricultural building to five houses.

The owners had believed that planning permission was not needed but only a change of use from agricultural to residential under permitted development rules.

A structural report prepared by Athena Structural Consultants and lodged with the council confirms the existing buildings on the site are structurally in good condition and are suitable for conversion to residential use.

However, James Bailey Planning, acting for nearby residents, has told the council that the site has been used as an equine centre and so falls outside the permitted development rights. They say the buildings were not surveyed in detail and no details of access and visibility splays have been provided.