The building of council homes in Ipswich for the first time for two decades moved a step closer when the Borough Council approved a plan to prepare for construction on three sites in the town.
The Council has published its ambitious plans in its new Corporate Plan, Building A Bettter Ipswich, and new council homes are a cornerstone of its key goals.
Councillors now want to develop two small parcels of land at Coltsfoot Road and in Whitton Church Lane and a larger site in Bader Close in partnership with Orwell Housing Association that would see 120 council homes being built.
Councillor John Mowles, Housing portfolio-holder, said: “Many people do not enjoy the opportunity of buying homes or renting in the private sector – it is vital we can offer an alternative. Our proposals will see investment in much needed new homes and will, too, provide jobs. This major report we approved last night is just the start but represents a big step forward to meeting those needs.”
The Council is also examining other sites across the town and expects to make further announcements in the near future.
There is also potential at stalled development sites, derelict areas and in the redevelopment of existing properties in poor condition.
For further comment:
Cllr John Mowles, Housing portfolio-holder, tel: 725063
Cllr Richard Pope, opposition Conservative Group spokeswoman, tel: 07963489339
Cllr Andrew Cann, opposition Liberal Democrat Group Leader, tel: 07545289190
