A housing association has been able to reapply to demolish what are believed to be the oldest buildings in Haverhill High Street despite refusal for the plans last month.

And in another twist, the association has put the two cottages up for auction, saying if they are bought it will amend its plans for six flats on the site.

Havebury Housing Partnership’s proposal to knock down the 18th-century cottages faced fierce opposition, including from Haverhill Town Council, and was turned down by St Edmundsbury Borough Council’s development control committee, which led to the item on the agenda for the flats scheme being deferred.

But due to a change in regulations, Havebury has been able to reapply for its development in a single application, which is due to go before the committee on Thursday, while on December 17 the cottages are going up for auction with a guide price of £50,000 to £70,000,

Paul Edwards, director of Resources at Havebury Housing Partnership, said “Following productive meetings with members of the local community and discussions with both the borough council and town council, Havebury has placed the two cottages into an auction on December 17 to provide an opportunity for a new owner to come forward to renovate the two properties.”

He added: “In the meantime, in case there is no willing buyer for the cottages, Havebury will proceed with its planning application for the High Street site on December 5.

“If the cottages sell at auction, Havebury will seek to amend its plans and build affordable housing in the remainder of the site.”

Haverhill town clerk Will Austin said it seemed Havebury was offering a limited opportunity for the cottages to be saved.

“We very much hope there will be a compromise which allows the cottages to be protected,” he said.

He wanted to add Havebury was a very important part of the Haverhill community, delivering much-needed affordable housing. Visit www.auctionhouse.uk.net/eastanglia