A MAJOR redevelopment of Ipswich which will create scores of flats, businesses and offices has been approved by councillors.The development at the St Peter's warehouse site was yesterday supported by borough councillors who backed the bid to redevelop the site and demolish the remains of the redundant warehouse.

A MAJOR redevelopment of Ipswich which will create scores of flats, businesses and offices has been approved by councillors.

The development at the St Peter's warehouse site was yesterday supported by borough councillors who backed the bid to redevelop the site and demolish the remains of the redundant warehouse.

The support came despite the Ipswich Society wanting the application rejected, arguing the style of the new flats is similar to Cardinal Park and would impact on the view from St Peter's Street.

The planning application was for a total of 62 new flats to be created on the site, as well as shops, offices and parking with a quayside frontage on to St Peter's Dock. Developers Beeston Properties Ltd also gained backing to convert a listed cottage in College Street into two flats as part of the work at the site.

Trevor Payne, chairman of the borough council's planning committee said:"This is another big step in the regeneration of the Waterfront which is transforming Ipswich into the most exciting centre in the region. "We are seeing major developments on the Waterfront which are bringing new homes, offices and leisure facilities to Ipswich for the benefit of residents and visitors. It also shows that the market has faith in the town and the local economy."

The site has been unused for more than 20 years when the warehouse ceased to be used and the main building, which was a seven storey Victorian warehouse, was damaged in a blaze more than three years ago.

Councillors also approved two planning applications from Status Property Group to redevelop the former Burton's Warehouse and Dock Roller Mill in College Street.

This redevelopment includes some demolition, renovation, extension of existing buildings and new property. It will see 195 flats created as well as commercial premises and car parking and see some sections of buildings fronting on to St Peter's Dock/Foundry Lane demolished.

The site is at present covered by empty factory and storage buildings and the application represents a major redevelopment of land within the waterfront area.