Three-storey apartment block could be coming to Bury St Edmunds

A bid to build a three-storey apartment block close to the town centre in Bury St Edmunds is back on.

The proposal, which has been submitted to St Edmundsbury Borough Council, would see the building of 16 one-bedroom and three two-bedroom apartments following the demolition of the existing property at 5A Kings Road.

The application from Richard Ames, of Richard Ames Developments, which includes six units of affordable housing, is the renewal of a previously approved scheme that expired almost a month ago.

Writing in a design and access statement that formed part of the initial application, a spokesman for architects and project management firm, Lynwood Associates, said the project would provide “low-cost residential units in a town centre environment providing a much- needed source for the first time buyers’ market.”

The plans indicate that the building, which would replace an existing residential and retail unit, would be ‘Z’ shaped and provide an open area to the nearest neighbours.

The architects said that the design of the building “accords favourably” with existing buildings and highlights the presence of taller existing buildings nearby.

A spokesman added: “To provide further interest to the street scene elevation, both red pantiles and slate roofing have been specified.”

A decision is due to be made on the application in March 2015.