THE latest proposals for one of the most important sites on the banks of the River Deben are expected to be approved with hardly any opposition.Only two members of the public have commented about a scheme to redevelop the redundant Whisstocks boatyard, Woodbridge, although there have been objections from various organisations.

THE latest proposals for one of the most important sites on the banks of the River Deben are expected to be approved with hardly any opposition.

Only two members of the public have commented about a scheme to redevelop the redundant Whisstocks boatyard, Woodbridge, although there have been objections from various organisations.

This in contrast to last year when there was intense public interest about a controversial scheme drawn up by luxury housebuilders Michael Howard Homes. They were refused planning permission by the district council and they lost an appeal.

Now Jon Marks, owner of Whisstocks, has asked the district council to renew planning permission for a redevelopment put forward five years ago. Planning officers recommend that it is approved at a development control sub committee meeting on October 16.

The aim is to retain two boat sheds and demolish the other buildings. Two new buildings would be erected, one of which would have offices over workshop space. The other building would be L-shaped with a tea room/restaurant, chandlery and retail space on the ground floor and offices on the first floor. There would be parking for 44 cars.

The district council has appointed a project manager to draw up an action plan for the riverside and Suffolk Preservation Society says it would be premature to grant permission for Mr Marks's scheme.

Network Rail is worried that there could be an increase in traffic at Haywards level crossing on the Ipswich to Lowestoft railway line and the Environment Agency is asking for a Flood Risk Assessment.

Woodbridge town council did not object to the concept but councillors said the buildings would be too dominant for the surrounding area and, "such an important riverside site deserves a more sympathetic design."

Woodbridge Society objected on the grounds that the scheme was "totally incompatible" with the Society's vision for the waterfront. This includes boat building and facilities for visiting yachtsmen.

Planning officers stated in a committee report that the project conformed with policies and it could be approved.