Community leaders are voicing their concern that some properties in a new housing development could become second homes.

East Anglian Daily Times: David Beavan, East Suffolk councillor for Reydon, is concerned the planned development will consist of second homes Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNDavid Beavan, East Suffolk councillor for Reydon, is concerned the planned development will consist of second homes Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Plans for up to 220 new homes in Reydon, near Southwold, were submitted to East Suffolk Council last year.

Reydon Parish Council has expressed fears that the development, if approved, will result in homes being unoccupied at times throughout the year.

The council's new neighbourhood plan, which could come into force soon, aims to prevent new builds being sold as second homes.

Jean Brown, clerk to Reydon Parish Council, said: "We are hoping that these new homes won't all go to second homeowners. If it does, it pushes up the price - which means local people can't afford to live here.

"We would like to see restrictions against this in our neighbourhood plan."

An outline planning application was submitted in March last year for a large housing development near Copperwheat Avenue in Reydon.

Residents of the village have already expressed their concern about such a large development, with many arguing that the sewage system is at full capacity and there is a lack of infrastructure, such as schools and shops.

Community leaders now fear the development, which could be approved next month, would result in homes being uninhabited for extended periods due to Reydon's proximity to the coastal resort of Southwold.

David Beavan, East Suffolk councillor for Reydon, said Brown and Co, the agent for the development, has not assured him that none of the homes will be marketed as secondary homes.

He said: "We have accepted that we need to give up some of our countryside to provide homes for people - but not for second homes that are empty most of the time."

Mr Beavan previously expressed concerns that the police station in Southwold will be converted into houses and flats before being marketed as second homes.

Suffolk Constabulary has submitted plans to demolish the station in Blyth Road and build three homes and six flats in its place.

The application for the proposed homes in Reydon will be heard by East Suffolk's planning committee on March 10.

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