Suffolk: Babergh sets deadline for Belle Vue House revamp

Babergh District Council has set a deadline of Monday, March 13, for firms to present their plans for Belle Vue House, off Newton Road.

The council and Sudbury Vision Group want to convert the property, which dates back to the 1870s, in a bid to improve the town centre.

While originally a home, Belle Vue House has more recently been used as offices.

Churchill Retirement Living had previously submitted proposals to convert the whole site into a block of 41 retirement apartments, with the main house itself being divided into two homes.

These plans were recommended for approval last August, but developer McCabe & Abel – which was going to handle the refurbishment of Belle Vue House – pulled out prior to a meeting.

John Ward, leader of Babergh District Council (Image: Babergh District Council)

The scheme was eventually blocked by the Babergh planning committee the following month.

In objection, some councillors had said they would prefer an "open park" at Belle Vue and that they could not "see the need" for the development after consulting residents of Sudbury.

Laura Knight, from Belle Vue Action Group, also told the meeting it was "very clear that Sudbury opposes the developments".

After the decision, Churchill Retirement Living had said it was "firmly committed to the restoration of Belle Vue House", but no further plans have been submitted.

In January, Babergh District Council reiterated its commitment to improving Belle Vue Park – the only park in Sudbury – despite the plans falling through.

John Ward, council leader, said: “Our ambition to regenerate Belle Vue House and the adjacent site is an important part of wider vision for Sudbury.

“It is right that we continue to seek the best possible solution for the town, the council and local community – and also obtain the finances to afford this."