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.
The report, due to be considered by Executive next week (Tuesday 11 August), seeks permission to submit planning applications for proposed developments at the former Tooks Bakery site and a site between Gower Street and Vernon Street.
The proposed schemes form part of the Council’s ongoing programme to provide new homes and make effective use of available land. Handford Homes, the Council’s wholly owned housing company, has already delivered 402 homes across Ipswich, including developments at the former Tooks Bakery site, Grimwade Street, Ravenswood, Bibb Way, Fore Hamlet and Hawke Road.
The first proposal would be built on the second phase of the former Tooks Bakery site. The development would provide 45 homes, including 39 one and two-bedroom flats and six three-bedroom terraced houses.
The second proposal would redevelop a Council-owned site between Gower Street and Vernon Street. Subject to approval, the scheme would deliver 56 one and two-bedroom flats within a five-storey apartment block.
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.”
If approved by Executive, planning applications for both schemes will be submitted, with further public consultation taking place as part of the planning process.
The report also seeks approval to apply for funding through Homes England’s Social and Affordable Housing Programme 2026–2036 to support the delivery of future affordable housing in the town.