Why it matters: The attractive building at 77-79 Grimwade Street has been used as offices since the 1950s.
The details: Jack Wilkinson, listed on Companies House as WCH SPV 1 Limited director, submitted the plans with a commitment to protect, preserve and enhance the qualities of the Grade II listed building.
Council officers approved the application on Wednesday, 20 August, stating there were no strong reasons to turn it down. This was despite some flats being slightly below space standards, which was attributed to challenges in converting a listed building.
What they're saying: Cllr Carole Jones welcomed the return to residential use, saying: "It's listed, it's beautiful, and people are going to live in it."
The bigger picture: The building had already been used as homes in the 1950s before being turned into offices. Approval will mean a legal agreement requiring the applicant to pay just over £120,000 in developer contributions, most of which will be spent on education, including a new early years school.
The bottom line: After 70 years as office space, this Grade II listed Ipswich building is set to return to its original purpose as homes, with the added benefit of generating significant funding for local education.
