The Development Control Committee of West Suffolk Council met on Wednesday 29 April 2026 to discuss a range of planning matters. The committee approved a significant planning application for the redevelopment of the former St James's CEVA Middle School site in Bury St Edmunds, which will see the conversion of existing buildings and the construction of new homes. Minor amendments to the council's public speaking protocol were also approved.

Redevelopment of Former St James's CEVA Middle School, Bury St Edmunds

The committee granted planning permission for the redevelopment of the former St James's CEVA Middle School site at The Vinefields, Bury St Edmunds. The approved plans include the partial demolition of existing school buildings, the conversion of three buildings into 14 residential dwellings, and the construction of nine new dwellings in three terrace blocks. The development also incorporates associated parking and landscaping.

The application was considered a technical departure from the local plan as the site lies outside the designated housing settlement boundary, placing it in the countryside. However, officers highlighted that the site is considered brownfield land, and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) places substantial weight on the redevelopment of such sites. A key benefit of the proposal is the significant heritage-related improvements, including the repair and long-term maintenance of the Grade 1 listed and scheduled monument precinct wall that borders the site. Historic England considered that the public benefits of these repairs would outweigh the low level of less than substantial harm to the heritage assets.

Concerns were raised by objectors, including the Abbey of St Edmund Heritage Partnership and the Bury Society, regarding the visual impact of the new terrace blocks (B and C) on the setting of the Abbey ruins and the River Lark. They argued that these buildings would be too close to the river and Abbey ruins, potentially obscuring views and appearing intrusive. However, officers, in consultation with the Conservation Officer and Historic England, concluded that the proposed development, with enhanced landscaping, would represent an overall visual improvement and that the new buildings would have an acceptable relationship with their surroundings.

The development will deliver 23 dwellings in total. The applicant benefits from a vacant building credit, meaning no affordable housing is required on site. The scheme also includes improvements to active travel infrastructure, with new foot and cycle paths proposed, connecting to existing routes. Contributions will also be made towards local education, libraries, and waste services, as well as off-site footway improvements.

The decision to approve the application was made by 13 votes to one.

Amendments to the Public Speaking Protocol

The committee approved two minor amendments to their public speaking protocol, which will come into effect from the next scheduled meeting on 3 June 2026. These changes include a slight amendment to the wording regarding data protection and the introduction of an additional registration method via an online form. These amendments are intended to improve accessibility and streamline the process for members of the public wishing to address the committee.