The Development Control Committee of West Suffolk Council is scheduled to consider a significant planning application for the former St James Ceva Middle School site in Bury St Edmunds. The committee will also discuss proposed amendments to its Public Speaking Protocol.

Former St James Ceva Middle School Redevelopment

A key item on the agenda is the planning application for the former St James Ceva Middle School site located at The Vinefields, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1YA. The proposal involves the partial demolition of existing school buildings, the conversion of three retained buildings to create 14 residential dwellings, and the construction of nine new dwellings in three terrace blocks, bringing the total to 23 new homes. Associated parking and landscaping are also part of the plans.

The report pack indicates that this application is considered a departure from the Statutory Development Plan as it proposes housing outside the Housing Settlement Boundary. The site is noted as being largely Previously Developed Land and has been vacant since the school's closure in 2016. The proposal also includes repairs to the Precinct Wall of the Former Vineyard, a Grade I listed structure and Scheduled Ancient Monument, which the applicant states will be funded by the development.

The report pack details extensive consultation responses from various bodies, including Anglian Water, the Environment Agency, Historic England, and local council officers. Objections have been raised by local residents concerning increased traffic, highway safety, and the impact on heritage assets. Conversely, support has been expressed by the St James Court Residents Association and the Bury St Edmunds Town Council, with the latter recommending approval subject to archaeological reports.

The report pack outlines the planning considerations, including the principle of development, heritage impact, design and visual impact, housing mix, trees, ecology, amenity, transport, active travel, flooding, and S106 contributions. It notes that the development is considered to have a low level of less than substantial harm to designated heritage assets, which is outweighed by the significant heritage benefits, including the repair and long-term management of the Precinct Wall. The re-use of brownfield land in a sustainable location and the delivery of high-quality, well-designed homes are also highlighted as benefits.

Amendments to the Public Speaking Protocol

The committee is also scheduled to consider two minor amendments to its Public Speaking Protocol, which would apply from the next scheduled meeting on 3 June 2026. These amendments include a slight change to the wording regarding data protection and the addition of an online form as a further method for registration to speak. Further details on how to have a say on planning applications can be found in the Guide to having a say on planning applications.