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Elm House conversion gets green light from council

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Ipswich Borough Council has approved plans to convert a vacant office building into residential flats. The decision was made at a Planning & Development Committee meeting on Wednesday 18th Spetember.

The big picture: Following yesterday's meeting, the Grade II-listed building at 25 Elm Street will be converted into three dwellings: a 5-bedroom ground-floor flat, a 2-bedroom flat, and a 4-bedroom first-floor flat.

Why it matters: The building was previously used as an office. Last November, the council denied initial plans to convert it into residential dwellings due to its historical interest. This time around, plans were approved.

Elm House in Ipswich
Elm House in IpswichOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

Objections raised: Two residents raised objections following concerns about the noise impact from the nearby music and events venue, bin storage and wider development issues, loss of privacy, and lack of infrastructure for additional flats in the town centre, including parking.

Conditions for approval: Plans were approved based on the following conditions:

  • Mitigation measures for Suffolk Coast Recreational Avoidance Strategy

  • Secure cycle parking and privacy measures must be detailed before occupation

  • Schedule of repair works, including underpinning, required before occupancy

Looking ahead: Developers must meet conditions within specified timeframes, and residents may continue to voice concerns as the project progresses.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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