By Richard SmithEXTRA precautions will be taken to stop more than 200 new homes from being flooded if a multi-million-pound scheme to regenerate part of a resort goes ahead.

By Richard Smith

EXTRA precautions will be taken to stop more than 200 new homes from being flooded if a multi-million-pound scheme to regenerate part of a resort goes ahead.

The redevelopment plans for the 17-acre south seafront site in Felixstowe have finally been received by Suffolk Coastal District Council.

The new housing will have floor levels above the severest flood level likely in 200 years, including an allowance for a sea level rise in the future.

Suffolk Coastal District Council said a flood risk assessment had been made and had revealed the area was “well protected from the potential risk along with the whole of south Felixstowe, most of which is at a much lower level than the south seafront site”.

The proposed development features include a natural amphitheatre for live performances, a refreshment centre, a cycle path and a restaurant and bar for families.

There will also be children's play areas, seating, picnic areas, toilets, car parking for 250 vehicles and the restoration of the Martello Tower.

Bloor Homes will pay for the public facilities in exchange for the land on which it can build 209 homes for sale and rent - of which 21 homes will be set aside as affordable housing for people from Felixstowe.

The council said changes had been made since initial designs were first proposed and these included extra car parking, the retention of the beach huts and a path for disabled people.

Andy Smith, cabinet member responsible for the project, said yesterday: “This has been a long and detailed process, but it needed to be as this scheme is vital to the long-term future of Felixstowe as a resort and we had to obtain top level independent professional confirmation that we have got a sound deal for the district.

“It is now all set to provide a range of family-friendly attractions that I think will prove a hit with people of all ages.”

He added: “From the start this council has wanted to clear up a prominent eyesore and provide some attractive features that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

“This is not, nor was it ever meant to be, a grandiose over-the-top leisure park. Suffolk Coastal wanted to ensure that what was on offer was at a scale that would attract more people, but in numbers that the town could cope with, and with no impact on council tax bills.”

richard.smith@eadt.co.uk