Planning for derelict Wherstead Road site to be converted into flats approved

The big picture: The site at 240 Wherstead Road, which has been vacant for 20 years, will be redeveloped as a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments after revised plans address initial concerns from residents and council departments.

By the numbers:

• 24 flats approved, down from 32 in the original proposal
• Mix of 14 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom units
• 27 car parking spaces and 56 cycle parking spaces included

Key details:

• The development will convert and extend the existing three-storey building, adding a fourth floor.
• The applicant has committed to improving the surrounding area, including widening the footway, enhancing the nearby underpass, and upgrading street lighting.
• Financial contributions totalling over £200,000 will be made towards local education, libraries, waste management, and public open spaces.

Between the lines: The approval comes after multiple revisions to the original plans, which faced objections from residents and some council departments.

• Concerns included increased traffic, loss of privacy for neighbours, and potential impacts on local wildlife.
• The developer reduced the number of flats and made design changes to address these issues.

What they're saying: "The proposal is considered to be acceptable in terms of the principle of residential development on this site," the planning committee report stated.

The bottom line: This development aims to rejuvenate a derelict and disused site while providing new affordable housing in the town.