Former council offices in Woodbridge back on the market

They've stood empty for 5 years.

Author: Sharon PlummerPublished 2nd Aug 2021

East Suffolk Council is ready to restart the process of marketing its previous office site to provide much-needed housing to a popular area.

The former council offices on Melton Hill in Woodbridge have been empty for five years and following the end of a contract with the site’s original developer, East Suffolk Council is once again ready to promote the site for sale.

The 3.23-acre site sits in a prime location close to Woodbridge town centre, overlooking the River Deben and with views across to Sutton Hoo.

Cllr Craig Rivett, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said:

“The Melton Hill site was initially sold in 2016, however, that sale fell through and East Suffolk Council is now ready to remarket the site with a fresh perspective and with certain expectations from the purchaser.”

East Suffolk Council would like to see any potential developer coming forward forging a close working relationship with the local community and Woodbridge Town council, ensuring that local people’s views are being heard and taken into consideration.

Furthermore, the Council is committed to addressing the need for more affordable homes in the area and, as with any planning application of this size, the Planning Authority would expect any development to include provision for at least 33% affordable housing.

Cllr Rivett added:

“Naturally, local people are very interested in what happens to this site and want to see a development that is compatible with its prime location and environment, whilst delivering much-needed affordable housing, so it will benefit not only the wider community but also attract new people, such as young families, that can have a positive impact on the local economy.”

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.