WORK is to begin this week on a multi-million development on the town’s seafront.

Bloor Homes’ project to enhance and develop Felixstowe South Seafront as Martello Park will see the construction of much-needed homes and new leisure facilities on the 17.5 acre site.

Andrew Marns, regional managing director of Bloor Homes Eastern, said: “It is great news that we can now get on with regenerating this site, adding both to the attractiveness and vitality of the seafront and helping meet Felixstowe’s pressing need for more homes.

“In tune with English Heritage our housing development proposals of mainly family homes will carefully complement and respect the historic Martello Tower that, thanks to this project, will continue for years to come to dominate the landscape.”

As part of the agreement with Suffolk Coastal District Council, Bloor will contribute towards the repair and refurbishment of the Martello Tower.

A leisure space will run from Sea Road to Manor Terrace including areas for play, picnics and wildlife.

A total of 127 homes will be created, including 13 affordable properties, along with 250 associated parking spaces and 261 pay-and-display parking spaces.

It is hoped the scheme will be completed in four years.