Council gives green light for Abbots Vale, Bury St Edmunds
West Suffolk Council’s planning committee has approved a reserved matters application for 363 new homes at Abbots Vale – land adjacent to the A134 at Rushbrooke Lane, Bury St Edmunds.
On Wednesday (March 6th) the council’s planning committee discussed and ultimately approved the scheme which includes plans for the energy efficient new homes, along with extensive open space. This includes sports pitches, children’s equipped play area and enhanced landscaping, accommodating additional native tree species and green spaces.
Jonathan Lieberman, Head of Planning at Hopkins Homes, said: “Our vision for Rushbrooke Lane is to create an attractive, sustainable new community that respects the distinctive fabric, landscape, and heritage of Bury St Edmunds.
“I am pleased that the committee has approved our application as we can now begin work on addressing the area’s housing needs, by bringing 363 stunning new homes to the area designed in Hopkins Homes’ renowned traditional architecture. 109 of the new homes will be designated as affordable housing.”
The development is in a prime location on the edge of Bury St Edmunds, near the town centre and in close proximity to Nowton Park – a haven for nature lovers – and the beautiful Suffolk countryside.
In a conscious effort to enhance the natural environment, the layout of the scheme incorporates an additional 2 hectares of open space, exceeding the outline permission for the development. This not only creates a buffer between the homes and site boundaries but also establishes a wider central link to Nowton Park, complemented by essential footpaths and cycle links throughout.
The plan includes extensive green links overlaying the character areas, providing residents with a seamless connection to the open space, parks and countryside.
Construction is expected to start on site this summer.
We have undertaken a thorough examination of river improvements along a 1km stretch of the River Lark, collaborating closely with the Environment Agency and other partners. The resultant River Lark Enhancement Scheme forms part of the development and underscores our commitment to sustainable development.
Looking ahead, broader plans for the area encompass a proposed bridge over the River Lark, to connect the north and south neighbourhoods.
To register your interest in the homes at Abbots Vale, click here.