New car spaces in east Suffolk are being marketed for £20,000-£45,000 – reigniting debates on parking and affordability.

The plans for 16 spaces in Melton/ Woodbridge have been submitted by Park Properties in recognition of the “acute lack” of parking.

Park Properties, which is based at Deben Mill Business Centre, wants to use its land at the corner of Melton Hill and Old Maltings approach for the development.

Nearby residents, including in Malt Yard have been told of the new spaces, which cost £20,000-£25,000 or £45,000 with garaging – the cost of a two bedroom house in parts of northern England.

The price has highlighted long-running concerns about parking provision in the Woodbridge area – and the affordability of housing.

Caroline Page, county councillor for Woodbridge, said parking was a “big issue”.

“We’ve got the perfect storm, because housing is increasingly only affordable for richer older people and so those working in the town – teachers, shopkeepers, hairdressers – cannot afford to live here. Inevitably they have to drive - but then they find there’s nowhere to park.”

Ms Page said the prices must be “terrifying” for people struggling to get on the property ladder.

Buffy Barrington, chairman of Melton Parish Council’s planning and transport committee, said the council was “very concerned “ about the lack of parking - particularly around the Malt Yard development.

“Parking is one of the major issues highlighted in the Melton Neighbourhood Plan – partly due to experience with developments such as this one,” she added. “The plan now requires that adequate parking is always given to new developments.”

Park Properties’ director Chris Wakefield said he discussed plans with Suffolk Coastal ward member Jim Bidwell.

“He felt it was worthwhile exploring the possibility with the planning department,” he added.

“Planners were extremely supportive and permission was granted in record time.”

Suffolk Coastal said it welcomes any extra parking provision in Woodbridge – and plans were in place to provide 80 extra spaces in Avenue Car Park area, Deben Leisure Centre and Community Centre.

“Local people should be reassured that Suffolk Coastal is aware of their concerns in this area and is taking positive action to provide additional parking spaces in the near future,” a spokesman added.