101 new homes proposed across two Ipswich sites
Ipswich Borough Council's Executive is being asked to approve the next stage of two proposed housing developments that could deliver more than 100 new affordable homes in the town.
Why it matters: The report, due before Executive on Tuesday, 11 August 2026, seeks permission to submit planning applications for developments at the former Tooks Bakery site and a site between Gower Street and Vernon Street. This would take the council's housebuilding programme a step closer to delivery.
The details: The former Tooks Bakery site would provide 45 homes: 39 one and two-bedroom flats across two three-storey blocks, and six three-bedroom terraced houses in two blocks.
The Gower Street site, currently occupied by single-storey industrial units, would be redeveloped into a five-storey block of 56 one and two-bedroom flats, double-fronted onto Gower Street and Vernon Street.
The bigger picture: The schemes form part of the council's ongoing housebuilding programme delivered through Handford Homes, its wholly owned housing company, which has already built 402 homes across Ipswich.
What they're saying: Councillor Alasdair Ross, Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: "Providing more good-quality, affordable homes remains one of the Council's key priorities. These two proposed developments would deliver more than 100 new homes, helping to meet local housing need while making best use of available sites.
"Handford Homes has a strong track record of delivering high-quality housing across Ipswich, and progressing these schemes to the planning stage is an important next step.
"While we recognise concerns around issues such as parking, particularly in the Gower Street area, if approved, we are committed to working closely with ward councillors and residents as the detailed designs are developed and consulted upon."
What's next: If approved by Executive, planning applications for both schemes will be submitted. Further public consultation will take place as part of the planning process, particularly around parking at Gower Street.
The report also seeks approval to apply for funding through Homes England's Social and Affordable Housing Programme 2026–2036 to support delivery of future affordable housing in the town.
The bottom line: If approved, the schemes would mark another step forward in the council's housebuilding programme, with residents' input still to shape the final designs.
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