Detailed plans for 115 new homes which will enable the expansion of a huge medical centre near Stowmarket have been given the go ahead.
The plans for land off Old Stowmarket Road in Woolpit received the final green light yesterday – bringing a raft of community benefits a step closer, including the expansion of Woolpit Health Centre.
There had previously been some opposition amongst locals who had concerns over the amount of traffic the development would bring through the village’s narrow streets.
However, the final decision now means work on the site could start by the end of the year.
Part of the 15-acre site has been earmarked for a substantial car park extension for the adjoining Woolpit Health Centre, allowing the current car park to be used for expansion plans to help the centre, which already serves more than 14,000 patients, meet the growing demand for GP services.
Outline planning permission for the development was granted by Mid Suffolk District Council’s planning committee in July 2018.
The development by David Wilson Homes Eastern Counties, who purchased the land last year, also includes 42 affordable housing plots, and highways improvements.
David Burn, Mid Suffolk District Council’s cabinet member for planning, said: “I am pleased this project not only includes affordable housing, but also delivers a range of benefits including the essential expansion of Woolpit Health Centre.
“Our communities need local health services in order to thrive and enjoy bright and healthy futures – and we are reminded of this now more than ever.”
The council’s chief planning officer used emergency delegated powers to sign off the project today, in the absence of regular committee meetings due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Despite outline planning permission for the site being given in 2018, progress had stagnated. The plot was put up for sale and was eventually bought by David Wilson Homes for an undisclosed sum in 2019.
The plans will see 115 two, three, four and five bed homes including 42 affordable properties and four bungalows.
Each property will be provided with car parking and bicycle storage. There will also be 29 visitor parking spaces will also be located within the estate.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here