The Development Control Committee of West Suffolk Council is scheduled to consider a range of planning applications at its meeting on Wednesday 5 August 2026. Key items on the agenda include a significant solar farm proposal near Bardwell and a new supermarket with a drive-through restaurant in Bury St Edmunds. The committee will also address a smaller application for heat pump systems at a property in Bury St Edmunds.

Solar Farm Proposed for Bardwell

A major planning application to be considered is for the installation and operation of a 42MW ground-mounted solar farm, including a substation, CCTV, boundary fencing, equipment, landscaping, and necessary grid connection infrastructure, on land south of Knox Lane, Bardwell. This proposal, detailed in report DEV/WS/26/024, is scheduled for discussion as part of Part A of the meeting. A site visit for members is planned for Monday 3 August 2026. The council's approach to decision-making on planning applications, outlined in its decision making protocol, emphasises that decisions must be based on material planning considerations.

Supermarket and Drive-Through Restaurant Proposed for Bury St Edmunds

In Part B of the meeting, the committee is scheduled to review a planning application for a new supermarket and drive-through restaurant, along with associated car parking and ancillary development, on land north of Rougham Hill, Bury St Edmunds. This application is referenced as DC/25/1065/FUL and is detailed in report DEV/WS/26/025. The council's planning system aims to enable the provision of homes, buildings, and jobs in a way that is consistent with the principles of sustainable development, balancing competition with environmental protection.

Air Source Heat Pumps for Property in Bury St Edmunds

Also scheduled for Part B of the meeting is a planning application for 9 Short Brackland, Bury St Edmunds. The application, referenced as DC/26/0963/FUL and detailed in report DEV/WS/26/026, concerns the installation of air source heat pump systems for Flat 1 and Flat 2, as well as front door replacement.

The meeting will also include procedural matters such as the confirmation of the minutes from the previous meeting held on 1 July 2026, as detailed in the Minutes of Previous Meeting. Members are reminded of their responsibility to declare any interests. The council provides guidance on how the public can participate in planning application discussions, including the opportunity to speak at committee meetings, as outlined in the Public Speaking Protocol.