Issue 17, 2nd - 8th October, 2026

Welcome to issue 17 of The Babergh & Mid Suffolk Briefing. A weekly plain-English summary of the public record from Babergh District Council and Mid Suffolk District Council: decisions made, money spent, planning applications and open consultations.

THIS WEEK AT A GLANCE

⚠️ HAVE YOUR SAY — Comments on the Quartet Villages neighbourhood plan area designation close at 4pm on Friday 16 October.
⚠️ HAVE YOUR SAY — Electors can ask for elections to fill casual vacancies: Elmsett's notice expires on 8 October, Bacton's and Wattisfield's on 13 October, Needham Market Town Council's on 14 October, Ashfield cum Thorpe's and Laxfield's on 15 October and Capel St Mary's on 16 October; a county notice covers the Bosmere Division.
• IN THE CHAMBER — Mid Suffolk Planning Committee met on 7 October on five applications; its decisions had not been published when this issue was compiled.
• IN THE CHAMBER — The Forward Plan adds a joint Ending Homelessness Action Plan, Fees and Charges for 2027/28, an Extreme Weather Policy and an evaluation of Mid Suffolk's rural transport pilots.
• PLANNING WATCH — A solo children's home proposed at Leavenheath; five dwellings proposed at Mellis; a wedding and tourism venue granted at Belstead Hall; a Bentley lawful-development appeal allowed.
• YOUR MONEY — Mid Suffolk has opened a fund of £500 to £10,000 grants for high-street businesses in ten places.
• JOBS & TENDERS — A Suffolk-wide Strategic Flood Risk Assessment tender, led by East Suffolk and covering Babergh and Mid Suffolk, closes on 19 October.
• COMMUNITY SAFETY & SERVICES — Police appeal after a schoolboy was bitten by a dog in Needham Market; two men jailed over burglaries in Stowmarket and Stradbroke.
• THE COUNTDOWN — 541 days to 1 April 2028; the date is suspended while the Government's review takes place.

NUMBER OF THE WEEK: 53 — planning schemes newly reported with an explicit outcome this week (44 granted, 3 refused, 6 withdrawn).

IN THE CHAMBER

MID SUFFOLK PLANNING COMMITTEE MET ON 7 OCTOBER; DECISIONS NOT YET PUBLISHED

The Mid Suffolk Planning Committee met at 9.30am on Wednesday 7 October 2026 at Endeavour House, Ipswich, on the five applications set out in Issue 16: a Travellers site of up to 18 pitches at The Rose Inn, Crowfield (DC/25/03043); continuation of a temporary bridge used as a works access off Low Road, Debenham (DC/26/03403); demolition of six bungalows and erection of five houses at Harleston Corner, Harleston (DC/26/01740); reserved matters for 15 small warehouse units on Phase 2, Plot 15 of Port One, Little Blakenham (DC/26/01972); and reserved matters for 14 dwellings on land east of Hockey Hill, Wetheringsett cum Brockford (DC/26/01758). The meeting's tabled papers were published on 6 October. The minutes and decisions were not published when this issue was compiled; we will report the outcomes once they are.

Source: Mid Suffolk Planning Committee, 7 October 2026 — agenda and papers

FORWARD PLAN: NEW ITEMS ON HOMELESSNESS, FEES AND CHARGES, EXTREME WEATHER AND RURAL TRANSPORT

The Forthcoming Decisions Lists published on 2 October 2026 (V502) carry five items not in the previous edition. For both Cabinets on 10 November: a joint Ending Homelessness Action Plan (first listed on 30 September), and Fees and Charges 2027/28 (listed for Babergh Cabinet from 30 September and for Mid Suffolk Cabinet from 2 October; Issue 16 gave the title as printed then, "2027/26"). For both Cabinets on 5 January 2027: an Extreme Weather Policy and Response Framework for the management of Council land. For Mid Suffolk Cabinet on 5 January 2027: an evaluation of the Mid Suffolk Rural Transport Pilots and the future approach to rural transport investment. Items already listed continue to appear, including the update to the Planning Scheme of Delegations before both councils on 22 October, the Community Governance Review (Babergh Council on 20 October, Mid Suffolk Council on 22 October), and the Kingfisher Swimming Pool update before Babergh Cabinet on 10 November, part of which is marked exempt.

Source: Forthcoming Decisions List V502 — Babergh Cabinet; V502 — Mid Suffolk Cabinet

PLANNING WATCH

This section covers every planning application validated or decided in the two portal weeks from 21 September to 4 October 2026, across Babergh District Council and Mid Suffolk District Council. Planning runs a few days behind the dates in this issue's title so that each weekly list is complete when we collect it. Full entries are given where an application involves new homes, a listed building, a change of use, commercial or agricultural development, infrastructure, or is otherwise of wider interest; every other application appears in the Full Register below. Applications from the week beginning 21 September also appeared in Issue 16 and are repeated in the register for completeness. Comments on newly validated applications are open for 21 days from validation, via the portal link on each item.

SOLO CHILDREN'S HOME PROPOSED AT 20 EDIES LANE, LEAVENHEATH (Change of use — dwellinghouse to children's home)

An application has been validated to change the use of 20 Edies Lane, Leavenheath, from a dwellinghouse (Class C3) to a solo residential children's home (Class C2), providing care for one young person with 24-hour staffing. The application was validated on 29 September 2026.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/04211

FIVE DWELLINGS PROPOSED AT MELLIS LODGE, MELLIS (Residential — 5 dwellings, outline)

An application for outline planning permission, with access to be considered and all other matters reserved, has been validated for five dwellings with associated garages and a new vehicular access at Mellis Lodge, The Common, Mellis, following demolition of two existing buildings. The application was validated on 30 September 2026.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03639

OUTLINE PERMISSION RENEWAL SOUGHT FOR ONE HOME AT 8 GRACECHURCH STREET, DEBENHAM (Residential — 1 dwelling, outline renewal)

An application for outline planning permission, with all matters reserved, has been validated for one two-storey detached dwelling with a detached garage and a new vehicular access at 8 Gracechurch Street, Debenham. The application describes itself as a renewal of an earlier outline permission. It was validated on 1 October 2026.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03313

WEDDING AND TOURISM VENUE GRANTED AT BELSTEAD HALL (Commercial — tourism and wedding venue, 4 buildings)

Planning permission has been granted for use of land at The Tudor Barn, Belstead Hall, Bucks Horns Lane, Belstead, as a tourism and wedding venue, with four buildings for wedding and holiday accommodation and a games room, and new accessways and parking hard surfaces. The application was received on 23 December 2025 and validated on 12 January 2026; the portal lists it as granted in the week beginning 28 September 2026.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/25/05603

BARN CHANGE OF USE TO KENNELS GRANTED AT HUGHES ROAD, EAST BERGHOLT (Change of use — barn to kennels, with listed building consent)

Planning permission, and a companion listed building consent for the works to facilitate the change of use, have been granted for the conversion of a barn to kennels at The Barn, The Lodge, Hughes Road, East Bergholt. Both applications were validated on 7 July 2026; the portal lists both as granted in the week beginning 28 September 2026.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/02879, DC/26/02881

BARN CONVERTED TO SELF-BUILD HOME GRANTED AT BROOKLAND FARM, BRANTHAM (Residential — 1 self-build dwelling, change of use of barn)

Planning permission has been granted for the change of use of a barn at Brookland Farm, Brantham Hill, Brantham, to one self-build or custom-build dwelling. The application alters an earlier approval to allow a symmetrical roof design. It was validated on 14 May 2026; the portal lists it as granted in the week beginning 28 September 2026.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/01751

SELF-BUILD DWELLING GRANTED AT HEDGEROWS FARM, BRENT ELEIGH (Residential — 1 self-build dwelling)

Planning permission has been granted for one self-build dwelling, with demolition of an existing modern barn, at Hedgerows Farm, The Street, Brent Eleigh. The application was validated on 1 August 2026; the portal lists it as granted in the week beginning 28 September 2026.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03312

SELF-BUILD DWELLING REFUSED AT SHRUBLANDS, BERGHOLT ROAD, BENTLEY (Residential — 1 self-build dwelling)

An application for one self-build dwelling at Shrublands, Bergholt Road, Bentley, has been refused. The application was validated on 6 August 2026; the portal lists it as refused in the week beginning 28 September 2026.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03354

TWO DWELLINGS AT BRUNDON HALL BARN, SUDBURY: APPLICATION WITHDRAWN (Residential — 2 dwellings)

An application for two detached dwellings and garages, following demolition of existing buildings, at the Barn at Brundon Hall, Brundon Lane, Sudbury, has been withdrawn. The application was validated on 13 August 2026.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03408

ICE-CREAM CREAMERY AT MANOR FARM, THURSTON: CONDITION VARIATION REFUSED (Section 73 variation — restriction on use)

An application under Section 73 to vary Condition 2 (Restriction on Use) of a permission dated 16 June 1986 for the use of a former poultry building as a creamery for the manufacture of dairy ice cream, at Manor Farm Creamery, Pakenham Road, Thurston, has been refused. The application was validated on 5 August 2026; the portal lists it as refused in the week beginning 28 September 2026.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03333

LAWFUL DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATE APPEAL ALLOWED AT WINDY FARM, BENTLEY (Planning appeal — Babergh)

The Planning Inspectorate's casework portal records an appeal under Section 195 reference APP/D3505/X/26/3377214 — an appeal about a Lawful Development Certificate — relating to Windy Farm, Capel Road, Bentley. The appeal, decided on written representations and started on 8 January 2026, is recorded as allowed, with a decision date of 5 October 2026. The decision letter was not available to us in readable form, so this entry does not state what the certificate covers or the council's original decision. No appeal decisions are recorded for Mid Suffolk in the same period.

Source: Planning Inspectorate — appeal APP/D3505/X/26/3377214

SECTION 73 VARIATIONS ROUND-UP

Applications to vary conditions on earlier permissions, validated or decided since our last issue; where a companion application was filed for the same works, both references are given:

• Calinol House 5 Maple Grove — retention and completion of a ground-floor extension to provide a hydrotherapy space for a disabled person, without compliance with conditions 2 (approved plans) and 4 (materials) of the earlier permission, Barham — granted (DC/26/03376)
• Little Barnes Nursery Shotley Road — variation or removal of Condition 3 (occupation only by Little Barnes Nursery employees) on the permission for change of use of an ancillary building to a dwelling, to let other people occupy it, Chelmondiston (DC/26/04164)
• Plot Adjoining The Oaklands Flordon Road — variation of Condition 1 (approved plans and documents) of the reserved matters approval for three dwellings with detached garages, to amend the design and location of Plot 1 only, Creeting St Mary — granted (DC/26/02997)
• Green Meadows The Green — variation of Condition 2 (approved plans and documents) on the householder permission and the listed building extension permission, to amend the window layout, Hessett — companion applications — granted (DC/26/03315, DC/26/03327)
• Latimers Ipswich Road — variation of Condition 2 (approved plans and documents) of the earlier permission for a single-storey extension and reinstated driveway access, Holbrook — granted (DC/26/02707)
• Keepers Farm Cox Hall Road — variation of Condition 2 (approved plans and documents) of the permission for a single-storey rear extension, first-floor front and side extension, roof alterations and a private treatment plant, Tattingstone — withdrawn (DC/26/03459)

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal

LISTED BUILDING CONSENT ROUND-UP

Listed building consent applications validated or decided since our last issue; where a companion application was filed for the same works, both references are given:

• Holy Oak Barn Church Road — installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof of the existing outbuilding, Combs (DC/26/03556)
• Watergate Lodge Clay Hall Lane — replacement of the existing three-bay garage outbuilding with an enlarged three-bay garage with workshop and storage space, Great Waldingfield — companion applications (DC/26/03302, DC/26/03303)
• Cemetery Lodge Friars Road — demolition of an existing extension and erection of a new extension, with replacement of one window, Hadleigh — companion applications — withdrawn (DC/26/02606, DC/26/02607)
• The Long House Folly Farm Waldingfield Road — single-storey alterations and additions to the eastern end of a modern range of buildings including a dog kennel, Lindsey — companion applications — granted (DC/26/03241, DC/26/03243)
• 52 Bury Street — repair of sash windows, replacement of damaged parts and sash cords, and replacement of single glass panes with vacuum insulated glazing panels, Stowmarket (DC/26/03950)
• Public House And Premises Church Road — lowering of a 1996 floor within Bedroom 5, replacement of modern tile in the lounge bar with oak floorboards, and removal of a concrete block and render courtyard wall and gates, Wingfield (DC/26/04231)

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal

COMMERCIAL, COMMUNITY AND AGRICULTURAL ROUND-UP

Other non-domestic, community and change-of-use applications validated or decided since our last issue:

• Warehouse 2 Buxhall Business Park Rectory Road — erection of external storage racks, Buxhall (DC/26/04245)
• 1 Northern Road — construction of a new vehicular access at Chilton Industrial Estate, Chilton (DC/26/04183)
• St John The Divine Church Church Road — construction of formal car parking on the site of the current grass parking area, Elmswell (DC/26/04202)
• Wakelyns Farm Metfield Lane — installation of a waste treatment plant and associated pipework, Fressingfield — granted (DC/26/03249)
• Land Adjacent 6 Green View — change of use of part of a meadow to an additional parking area for private recreational vehicle storage, including engineered earthworks to the retaining bank, Hartest (DC/26/03406)
• Kiln Farm Mellis Road — change of use of a holiday let to a residential annexe, Thrandeston (DC/26/04058)
• Keswick Lodge Magpie Green — change of use of land to residential (retention of) and erection of garage, Wortham — withdrawn (DC/26/02626)

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal

NATIONALLY SIGNIFICANT INFRASTRUCTURE

The National Grid (Bramford to Twinstead Reinforcement) Order 2024 — submissions discharging a Requirement of the Order:

• Requirement 6, Stage 3 detailed written scheme of investigation (archaeology) — trenches 359–366 — granted (DC/26/03802)
• Requirement 6, Stage 3 detailed written scheme of investigation (archaeology) — trenches 380–386 — granted (DC/26/03845)
• Requirement 6, Stage 3 detailed written scheme of investigation (archaeology) — trenches 367–370, validated 29 September 2026 (DC/26/04237)

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal

THE FULL REGISTER

Every other application validated or decided between 21 September and 4 October 2026, by district and settlement.

Babergh

• Planning application — erection of single-storey rear extension; Replacement of garage door with window; Insertion of new door opening; Demolition of side door and rear wall, Acton (DC/26/04095)
• Condition discharge — condition 4 (Acoustic Assessment), Acton (DC/26/04170)
• Non-material amendment — include phasing plan in approved drawing, Aldham (DC/26/04131)
• Condition discharge — condition 4 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy), Alpheton — granted (DC/26/03893)
• Condition discharge — condition 6 (Materials) and 7 (Rainwater Goods), Alpheton (DC/26/04250)
• Condition discharge — condition 4 (Biodiversity Enhancement Measures), Assington — granted (DC/26/03885)
• S73 variation — variation of Condition 2 (approved plans and documents) of the householder extension permission, to increase the chimney projection from 100mm to 500mm, Assington (DC/26/04106)
• Non-material amendment — amendments to the proposed glazing. As per plans submitted. Size changes to the following windows: w1, w6, w7, w8, w9, w10, w12. Removal of sidelights to: d2, d3, Bentley — granted (DC/26/04123)
• Householder — retention of timber enclosure associated with approved battery storage and renewable energy installation, Boxford (DC/26/03772)
• Householder — erection of garden room and a shed (Following demolition of existing garden shed). Installation of an EV charger point and solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to the…, Boxford (DC/26/03943)
• National Grid Bramford–Twinstead order — Requirement 6, Stage 3 detailed written scheme of investigation (archaeology), trenches 305–320, Bramford–Twinstead corridor (DC/26/04195)
• Householder — erection of single storey monopitch front extension, Brantham — granted (DC/26/03677)
• Condition discharge — condition 5 (Facing and Roof Materials - Barn and Cart Lodge), Brettenham — granted (DC/26/03276)
• Householder — formation of two off-road parking spaces within the front garden and creation of a new vehicular access from Claypits Avenue, Bures St Mary (DC/26/04188)
• Condition discharge — condition 9 (Details of Sustainable Urban Drainage System Components), Capel St Mary (DC/26/04223)
• Condition discharge — conditions: 4 (Surface Water Strategy); 10 (Roof Light Blinds); and 11 (External Lighting), Chelmondiston — granted (DC/26/03562)
• Planning application — erection of extension to the existing building, Chilton (DC/26/02913)
• Non-material amendment — amendment to Public Open Space (POS) landscape drawings to reposition the play area clear of the existing ditch and amendment to short section of the adjoining…, Chilton — granted (DC/26/03605)
• Householder — erection of a Garden Room, Chilton (DC/26/04092)
• Condition discharge — conditions 4 (A Public Rights of Way (PROW) Demolition and Construction Management Strategy) and 5 (Prow Surface Licence), Chilton (DC/26/04261)
• Tree works — fell 1 No. Holly (T1), Cockfield (DC/26/04165)
• Tree works — fell 2 No. Acacia (T1 and T2), 1 No. ivy covered stump (T3) and 1 No. Conifer (T4). Reduce height of crown of 2 No. Acacia (T5 and T6) by 2m and reduce lateral…, Cockfield (DC/26/04256)
• Householder — erection of a side extension and front and rear porches, Copdock and Washbrook (DC/26/04265)
• Tree works — BT394/A1 - Reduce the weight and size of some of the larger extended branches overhanging neighbouring gardens ensuring a balanced crown upon completion, East Bergholt (DC/26/04091)
• Planning application — change of use of a dwellinghouse (C3) to a care home (C2) for up to four children, East Bergholt (DC/26/04142)
• Permission in principle — erection of 2no. detached single storey dwellings, East Bergholt (DC/26/04167)
• Tree works — crown reduction by up to 30% of Copper Beech (T1) and Robinia tree (T2), East Bergholt (DC/26/04168)
• Householder — erection of single-storey side and rear extensions, replacement roof and new cladding to the existing rear extension, porch alterations, replacement windows and eaves…, East Bergholt (DC/26/04217)
• Tree works — ES33/A1 - Fell 1 No. Pine (T1), Freston (DC/26/04090)
• Planning application — retention of 4 No wall mounted condenser units (in security cages), Glemsford — granted (DC/23/05455)
• Householder — erection of a pent roof garden room/office, Glemsford — granted (DC/26/03590)
• Householder — installation of 8 Solar panels attached to the South facing roof of detached bungalow, battery to be installed at rear of property, Glemsford — withdrawn (DC/26/03668)
• Condition discharge — part discharge of Condition 3 (Timber Frame Repairs) for the middle part of the west elevation only, Glemsford — decided (DC/26/03740)
• Planning application — erection of 1no. self build single storey dwelling following demolition of existing workshop; Improvements to existing vehicular access, Glemsford (DC/26/03855)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Fenestration) and 6 (Biodiversity Enhancement Measures), Glemsford (DC/26/04121)
• Tree works — fell 1 No. Cherry tree, Glemsford (DC/26/04169)
• Householder — erection of front porch and replacement detached garage (following demolition of existing), Great Cornard — granted (DC/26/03035)
• Condition discharge — condition 5 (Cycle Storage) and Condition 11 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy), Great Waldingfield — granted (DC/26/03663)
• Householder — conversion of garage to annexe including increase of roof height and single storey extension together with detached garage, Great Waldingfield (DC/26/04130)
• Householder — replacement of existing Summer House and garden Shed/Storage, Hadleigh — granted (DC/26/03183)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Lighting Scheme) and 4 (Biodiversity Enhancement Measures), Hadleigh — granted (DC/26/03695)
• Listed building consent — removal of existing section of lath and plaster ceiling to attach fixing straps to prevent further movement of existing timber frame. Reinstatement of ceiling…, Hadleigh (DC/26/03987)
• Planning application — construction of manege for private use, Hadleigh (DC/26/04163)
• Non-material amendment — vary Condition 17 (Agronomy Report) and remove Condition 15 (Playing field restoration scheme) to enable work to start on the approved scheme, Hadleigh (DC/26/04178)
• Statutory undertaker — installation of 1 cable on wall with associated fixtures and fittings, Hadleigh (DC/26/04224)
• Householder — replacement window and insertion of a new window to first floor home office, Hartest (DC/26/04278)
• Householder — erection of a two storey rear extension and a front porch (following removal of conservatory), Holbrook (DC/26/04089)
• Tree works — plum tree that is dead and requires removal since it is unsafe. No leaves remaining on tree during August and no green within branches. Main trunk moves when pushed, Kersey — decided (DC/26/03656)
• Condition discharge — condition 4 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy), Kersey — granted (DC/26/03906)
• Tree works — fell 1 No. Apple (T1), Reduce 1 No. Conifer (T2) by about 40% and lightly trim and shape the remainder, Kersey (DC/26/04251)
• Outline permission — erection of 6 no. self-build dwellings, Lavenham — refused (DC/26/03298)
• Tree works — 2 x Black Poplar (T1 and T2 on sketch plan) - overall crown reduction by 5 metres, Lavenham — decided (DC/26/03725)
• Condition discharge — condition 1 (Cycle Storage), Lavenham — granted (DC/26/03800)
• Listed building consent — installation of a new handrail, Lavenham (DC/26/03928)
• Condition discharge — condition 8 (Brickwork Panel), Lavenham (DC/26/04125)
• Condition discharge — conditions 2 (Landscaping Details), 3 (Screen Walls and Fences), 4 (Landscape Management Plan), 5 (Parking), 6 (Refuse Bin Storage) and 9 (Biodiversity Enhancement…, Lawshall (DC/26/04226)
• Tree works — reduce 3 No. Oaks (T233, T234 and T235) to previous pruning points, Leavenheath — granted (DC/26/03729)
• Listed building consent — replacement of 1No. glazed, painted timber double doors at rear of property. New doors to be oak double doors (including door frame) with one unit fully glazed and…, Lindsey (DC/26/04111)
• Householder — repainting of external render and brickwork, and replacement of windows and door, Long Melford — granted (DC/26/02903)
• Tree works — T1 Silver Birch, Reduce the crown back to the previous pruning points, removing the regrowth formed since the last pruning operation. Crown thin the canopy through…, Long Melford — decided (DC/26/03705)
• Certificate of lawfulness — multi-functional use of a single room within the dwelling as a family hobby room, home gym, and private reflexology business including internal alterations, Long Melford — decided (DC/26/03732)
• Tree works — fell 1 No. Eucalyptus (T1), Long Melford (DC/26/04107)
• Non-material amendment — changes set out in the proposed changes statement and drawings submitted with the application, Long Melford (DC/26/04118)
• Tree works — to reduce or remove 3 pine trees, Monks Eleigh — decided (DC/26/03658)
• Tree works — WS129/A5 - Reduce 1 No. Cherry (T1) by 1 to 2 meters and raise canopy by approximately 1 to 2 metres. Reduce 1 No. Ash (T1) by 1 to 2 meters and raise canopy by…, Nayland with Wissington (DC/26/04110)
• Tree works — reduce 1 No. Bay Laurel (T1) by 2 metres and reduce 1 No. Bay Purple plum (T2) by 2 metres, Nedging with Naughton (DC/26/04138)
• Householder — installation of Solar Panels to north and east roof ranges (retention of), Newton — granted (DC/26/02261)
• Householder — installation of PV Panels to existing garage roof, Polstead (DC/26/04077)
• Local Listed Building Consent Order — Class B pre-start notification, Polstead (DC/26/04216)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Timber Frame) and 5 (Historic Infill and Timber Laths), Polstead (DC/26/04248)
• Condition discharge — conditions: 3 (Fenestration); 4 (Internal Doors); 5 (Vents and Flues); 6 (Limecrete Floor Details) and 7 (Wall Insulation and Cavity Membrane Details), Shelley — granted (DC/26/03205)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Replacement Floor), 4 (Fenestration), 5 (Eaves and Verges), 6 (Roof Cladding), 7 (Wall Cladding), 8 (Rainwater Goods and External Openings) and 9 (New…, Shelley — decided (DC/26/03219)
• Householder — to demolish and rebuild existing garage; insert front door with porch, Shotley — granted (DC/26/03566)
• Prior approval — erection of an agricultural building at 2 Styngham Cottages, Main Road (Schedule 2, Part 6, Class A), Shotley (DC/26/04182)
• Householder — erection of a two-storey side, and single-storey rear extensions, following the demolition of existing lean-to, Stoke by Nayland (DC/26/03234)
• Householder — proposal for three ASHP to the cottage and Solar panels to Garage roof, Stoke by Nayland (DC/26/04159)
• Listed building consent — proposal for three ASHP to the cottage and Solar panels to Garage roof, Stoke by Nayland (DC/26/04160)
• Listed building consent — internal repairs, alterations, restoration and structural works as detailed in the Design and Access Statement, Stratford St Mary (DC/26/04101)
• Tree works — re-pollard 1 No. Pseudo Acacia (T1), Reduce crown of 1 No. Strawberry tree (T2) by 50% and reduce 1 No. Plum (T3) by 30%, Stratford St Mary (DC/26/04268)
• Householder — erection of single-storey and first-floor Rear Extensions, Sudbury — granted (DC/26/03198)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Floor Finishes) and 4 (Lighting), Sudbury — granted (DC/26/03296)
• Planning application — replacement door, Sudbury — withdrawn (DC/26/03304)
• Planning application — change of use of an existing first-floor residential apartment (Use Class C3) to short-term visitor accommodation (Sui Generis), Sudbury (DC/26/03504)
• Householder — erection of garden room, Sudbury (DC/26/03892)
• Listed building consent — installation of combined defibrillator and bleed kit cabinet to external wall of Nationwide Building Society branch, Sudbury (DC/26/03964)
• Tree works — removal of one stem from 1 No. Eucalyptus (T1), Sudbury (DC/26/04116)
• Householder — addition of first floor dormer window, Tattingstone — granted (DC/26/03489)
• Planning application — creation of fenced manege and associated stables (retention of) for private, domestic equestrian use, Wenham Parva (DC/26/03945)
• Condition discharge — conditions 8 (Wildlife Sensitive Lighting Design Scheme) and 18 (Acoustic Assessment), Wherstead (DC/26/04258)

Mid Suffolk

• Householder — proposed Residential Outbuilding, Ashbocking — granted (DC/26/03232)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Details of Timber Frame, Infill and Brickwork Repairs) (east side elevation only) and 4 (Details of Backing Materials, Insulation and Render…, Bacton — decided (DC/26/03734)
• Planning application — erection of 2no. dwellings including erection of garage to serve existing dwelling (following partial demolition and alteration of existing dwelling), Bacton (DC/26/03955)
• Condition discharge — conditions 13 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy) and 14 (Landscape and Ecological Management Plan), Badley — granted (DC/26/03085)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Landscape Details) and 6 (Fire Hydrants), Badwell Ash (DC/26/04225)
• S73 variation — variation of Condition 2 (approved plans and documents) of the reserved matters approval for two dwellings, Barham (DC/26/04200)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Fenestration Details), 4 (Eaves & Verge Details) and 5 (Material Details), Battisford — granted (DC/26/04105)
• Planning application — change of use of agricultural barn to residential dwelling and associated works, Baylham — granted (DC/26/02316)
• Planning application — conversion of barn to dwelling (self-build), Bedfield — withdrawn (DC/26/03215)
• Condition discharge — conditions 5 (Arboricultural Details), 6 (Construction Method Statement), 9 (Sustainability Statement), 10 (Surface Water Management Strategy), 12 (Biodiversity…, Beyton — granted (DC/26/02826)
• Householder — erection of a detached double garage, Botesdale — granted (DC/26/03325)
• Tree works — trim height of 1 No. Eucalyptus (T1) and 2 No. Silver Birch (T2 and T3) and shape trees, Botesdale (DC/26/04086)
• Tree works — fell 1 No. Silver Birch (T1), Botesdale (DC/26/04098)
• Tree works — re-pollard 1 No. Goat Willow (T1), Botesdale (DC/26/04274)
• Condition discharge — condition 5 (Skylark Compensation Strategy), Bramford — withdrawn (DC/24/02617)
• Certificate of lawfulness — installation by a statutory undertaker of an electricity connection cable by horizontal directional drill at a depth of 7000mm from the Care Power (Bramford) Limited battery energy storage system site to the National Grid Bramford Substation, Bramford (DC/26/04154)
• Condition discharge — condition 5 (Skylark / farmland bird compensation strategy) and 26 (Lemp to be agreed), Bramford (DC/26/04174)
• Condition discharge — condition 7 (Noise Assessment), Bramford (DC/26/04234)
• Householder — installation of a dropped kerb, Brome and Oakley — refused (DC/26/03437)
• Condition discharge — conditions 4 (Material), 5 (Archaeological Evaluation), 12 (Demolition and Construction Management Plan), 14 (Construction Environmental Management Plan), 16…, Brundish — granted (DC/26/03572)
• Statutory undertaker — erection of 9m wooden pole, Coddenham — decided (DC/26/03818)
• Listed building consent — install freestanding electric vehicle charger, Combs — decided (DC/26/04099)
• Householder — creation of a slabbed hard standing area and erection of a Breezehouse oval wooden garden gazebo, Combs (DC/26/04213)
• Planning application — construction of a single storey building for use as a commercial office, Creeting St Mary — granted (DC/26/02865)
• Condition discharge — condition 6 (Cycle Storage), 10 (Foul Water Drainage Details), 11 (Land Contamination), 14 (Biodiversity Enhancement Layout) and 16 (Sustainability), Creeting St Mary (DC/26/04135)
• Tree works — pollard 1 No. Ash (T1) at approximately 5m and allow to form a new canopy, Debenham (DC/26/04129)
• Advertisement consent — changing the signage above the door of the shop to The Little Acorn, with the colour changed to an exterior eggshell paint and the words in cream vinyl, Debenham (DC/26/04137)
• Tree works — reduce crown of 1 No. Horse Chestnut to 4.5m, Debenham (DC/26/04291)
• Tree works — reduce 1 No. Yew (T1) to 3m, Reduce 1 No. Elm to 3m and Reduce 1 No. Horse Chestnut (T3) to 3m, Debenham (DC/26/04292)
• Householder — alterations, restoration and refurbishment of detached dwelling with associated outhouses, Drinkstone — granted (DC/26/03081)
• Planning application — conversion of barn to 1no dwelling (Revised Scheme) with single storey link to existing outbuilding for conversion into additional residential accommodation, Earl Stonham (DC/26/04017)
• Tree works — MS390/T1 - Fell 1 No. Oak (T1), Elmswell — granted (DC/26/03733)
• Householder — erection of a single-storey side extension to the west elevation, Elmswell (DC/26/04134)
• Non-material amendment — instead of weather boarding externally, the applicant would like to use render, Elmswell (DC/26/04243)
• Tree works — MS100/A1 - Fell 1 No. Scots Pine (T1), Elmswell (DC/26/04257)
• Householder — erection of single storey rear kitchen extension. Replacement of windows, Eye (DC/26/04062)
• Listed building consent — erection of single storey rear kitchen extension. Replacement of windows, Eye (DC/26/04063)
• Condition discharge — condition 3 (Details of new lion statue), Eye (DC/26/04203)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Foul Drainage), 5 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy) and 6 (Wildlife Sensitive Design), Eye (DC/26/04286)
• Statutory undertaker — installation of main cable from existing pole, Felsham (DC/26/04146)
• Householder — replacement single storey front porch and link corridor, garage extension, two storey rear extension, new windows and doors, alterations, Flowton — granted (DC/26/02482)
• Condition discharge — condition 18 (Fenestration), Framsden — granted (DC/26/03870)
• Planning application — change of use of agricultural land to provide a pub garden, Framsden (DC/26/03907)
• Tree works — MS17/A4 - Reduce 1 No. Horse Chestnut away from building and reshape, Fressingfield — granted (DC/26/03464)
• Condition discharge — condition 3 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy), Gislingham (DC/26/04175)
• S73 variation — variation of Condition 2 (approved plans and documents) of the permission for conversion of two redundant outbuildings to a dwelling with glazed link extension, Gosbeck — granted (DC/26/03008)
• Condition discharge — conditions 4 (Windows and Doors), 5 (Render), 6 (Mechanical Ventilation), 8 (External Facing Materials), 9 (Eaves and Verges) and 11 (Bat Licence), Great Finborough (DC/26/04084)
• Planning application — erection of 1no. self-build dwellinghouse, garage, summerhouse and improvements to the existing vehicular access, Haughley (DC/26/04034)
• Condition discharge — conditions 6 (Landscaping Details) and Condition 9 (Biodiversity Enhancement Measures), Haughley (DC/26/04249)
• Householder — installation of a bulk LPG tank underground in the front garden, Hemingstone (DC/26/03625)
• Planning application — change of land for the erection of 5 no. single storey shepherd hut style glamping pods as an extension to an established glamping village, Henley — granted (DC/26/02763)
• Householder — conversion of existing integral garage to form new ground floor bedroom, installation of new windows within existing garage door opening, formation of new pitched…, Henley (DC/26/04043)
• Tree works — ES60a/T5 and ES60a/T4 - Fell 2 No. Oaks (T1 and T2), Henley (DC/26/04136)
• Condition discharge — condition 3 (Repairs to Underlying Fabric), 4 (Render Backing), 5 (Wall Insulation) , 9 (External Facing And Roofing Materials) and 10 (Vents), Hessett — granted (DC/26/03735)
• Householder — extension to existing cart lodge including provision of 2 dormer windows and part conversion to provide additional living accommodation to existing dwelling, Horham — granted (DC/26/03344)
• Householder — retention and completion of alterations to dwelling and erection of single storey extension, Hoxne — granted (DC/26/03009)
• Listed building consent — regularisation and completion of repairs to existing building and creation of new single storey rear extension, Hoxne — granted (DC/26/03010)
• Householder — timber framed, single storey, detached cartlodge for use as secure parking, digger store, logstore, and workshop (following removal of existing storage container), Laxfield — granted (DC/26/02996)
• S73 variation — variation of Condition 2 (approved plans and documents) of the householder extension permission, Laxfield — granted (DC/26/03197)
• Planning application — construction of garage, shed and workshop area (addition to Plot 3 of a commenced permission), Laxfield — granted (DC/26/03245)
• Tree works — (T1) - Stone Pine - crown raise over driveway and crown reduce by approximately 0.5-1M, Laxfield — decided (DC/26/03736)
• Certificate of lawfulness — extended to the rear and side which was done under permitted development, Laxfield (DC/26/04045)
• Condition discharge — condition 4 (Wildlife Enhancement Strategy), Laxfield (DC/26/04210)
• Condition discharge — full discharge of part A of Condition 62 (Surface Water Drainge Scheme) for the outline part of the site. Part discharge of Parts B to J, for Phase 1/unit 14 only, Little Blakenham — granted (DC/26/03490)
• Condition discharge — conditions 35 (Commercial Noise Attenuation), 52 (Construction Management Plan), 54 (Construction Environmental Management Plan) and 66 (Commercial Noise…, Little Blakenham (DC/26/04153)
• Planning application — construction of General Industrial building (Class B2) with truck yard and parking, Little Blakenham (DC/26/04198)
• Tree works — reduce 1 No. Conifer (T1) to previously reduced height, Mellis (DC/26/04162)
• Planning application — erection of single storey front extension, new pitched roof to replace existing and external insulation with render finish, Mendlesham — granted (DC/26/01166)
• Planning application — erection of domestic garage, Mendlesham — granted (DC/26/01815)
• Condition discharge — condition 28 (Access and Footway Works), Mendlesham — granted (DC/26/03259)
• Condition discharge — condition 34 (Cycle Storage and Charging), Mendlesham — granted (DC/26/03661)
• Tree works — coppicing to hazel tree in the garden of 34 Old Market Street to allow a new fence to be erected with neighbouring garden at 30 Old Market Street. Tree is…, Mendlesham — decided (DC/26/03679)
• Tree works — re-pollard 1 No. Willow tree, Mendlesham — decided (DC/26/03684)
• Tree works — reduce 1 No. Walnut (T1) by 30%, Mendlesham (DC/26/04085)
• Condition discharge — conditions 14 (Measures to improve sustainability of development) and 17 (Hard and soft landscaping), Monk Soham (DC/26/04283)
• Certificate of lawfulness — conversion of existing loft space to habitable accommodation, Needham Market — decided (DC/26/01935)
• Householder — creation of a dropped kerb, Needham Market — granted (DC/26/02737)
• Condition discharge — condition 9 (SUDS), 19 (Roads and Footpaths), 21 (Surface Water Discharge Prevention) and 36 (Footpath Flow Restrictors), Needham Market (DC/26/04185)
• Statutory undertaker — erection of a 10m medium wooden pole, Needham Market (DC/26/04235)
• Householder — erection of a Cart Lodge, Nettlestead (DC/26/03324)
• Householder — conversion of swimming pool to residential annexe, Offton — granted (DC/26/03265)
• Condition discharge — part discharge of Condition 9 (Archaeological Works) for Part G for the green area only, Old Newton — granted (DC/26/04133)
• Prior approval — erection of a single-storey rear extension (Schedule 2, Part 1, Class A larger home extension), Old Newton (DC/26/04228)
• Planning application — erection of 1no. detached dwelling including amendments to access and provision of parking, Onehouse (DC/26/03708)
• Non-material amendment — updated drawings for Plots 135-138 showing two side elevation windows updated to tax windows on Plots 135 and 138, Onehouse (DC/26/04096)
• Condition discharge — condition 3 (Underlying Fabric), Rattlesden (DC/26/04208)
• S73 variation — variation of Condition 2 (approved plans and documents) of the permission for two dwellings and garaging, Redgrave (DC/26/04059)
• Tree works — reduce 1 No Lime back to previous points at around 7m, Redgrave (DC/26/04179)
• Householder — proposed first floor side extension, single storey rear extension and alterations, Stonham Aspal — granted (DC/26/02155)
• Condition discharge — condition 4 (Construction Method Statement), Condition 5 (Scheme of hard, soft and boundary treatment landscaping works), Condition 6 (Approved details of…, Stonham Aspal — granted (DC/26/03058)
• Planning application — conversion of former public house, shop and residential unit into shop, accommodation and additional residential unit, Stonham Aspal (DC/26/04108)
• Listed building consent — conversion of former public house, shop and residential unit into shop, accommodation and additional residential unit, Stonham Aspal (DC/26/04109)
• Planning application — construction of a new surface-level car park with new access, Installation of low-level LED lighting columns and associated surface water drainage measures, Stowmarket — granted (DC/26/00804)
• Certificate of lawfulness — for continued use of a summer house, Stowmarket (DC/26/02738)
• Householder — erection of a single storey front extension to form porch and shower room, Stowmarket — granted (DC/26/03016)
• Condition discharge — conditions: 5 (Electric Vehicle Charging Points); and 6 (Bin Storage and Presentation), Stowmarket — granted (DC/26/03548)
• Reserved matters — appearance, layout, landscaping and scale for 252 dwellings and associated infrastructure at Ashes Farm, Newton Road, under an outline permission for up to 300 dwellings, Stowmarket (DC/26/03908)
• Condition discharge — conditions 5 (Approval of Phasing of Development), 17 (Surface Water Drainage Scheme), 26 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy), 27 (Landscape and Ecological Management Plan), 28 (Wildlife Sensitive Lighting…, Stowmarket (DC/26/03909)
• Condition discharge — condition 5 (Wildlife Enhancement Measures), Stowupland (DC/26/04147)
• Householder — erection of a two storey extension to the west gable end to provide a home office, shower room and safe access to the upper floors via a new staircase and…, Stradbroke — granted (DC/26/03139)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Construction Management Plan), 4 (Biodiversity Enhancement Layout), 5 (Great Crested Newt Method Statement), 8 (decommissioning and land restoration…, Stradbroke — granted (DC/26/03217)
• Listed building consent — erection of a two storey extension to the west gable end to provide a home office, shower room and safe access to the upper floors via a new staircase and…, Stradbroke — granted (DC/26/03328)
• Condition discharge — condition 5 (Electric Vehicle Charging Point), Condition 6 (Wildlife Sensitive Lighting Design Scheme), Condition 7 (Biodiversity Enhancement Measures), Stradbroke — granted (DC/26/03835)
• Householder — remove existing overhead canopy to front entrance of property and replace with an open porch, Stradbroke (DC/26/03877)
• Non-material amendment — changes to an earlier permission including removal of second-floor accommodation, hipped roof ends, a revised attached garage, altered internal layouts and removal of a sun room…, Stradbroke (DC/26/04150)
• Condition discharge — conditions: 3 (Fenestration); 4 (Materials); 5 (Vent details); 6 (Repairs to underlying fabric); and 7 (Shortfall material), Stuston — decided (DC/26/02097)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Fenestration), 5 (External Vents), 6 (Repairs and Alteration to Underlying Fabric) and 7 (Extra Materials), Stuston (DC/26/04143)
• Householder — erection of single storey side & rear extensions. Alterations to fenestration, including insertion of 2no rooflights to east elevation roof slope. Installation of…, Stuston (DC/26/04233)
• Condition discharge — condition 10 (Works to Timber Frame), Syleham — granted (DC/26/03443)
• Householder — erection of a Detached Garage, Syleham (DC/26/04081)
• Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Construction Management Plan), 4 (Biodiversity Method Statement), 5 (Surface Water Discharge Prevention), 6 (Roofing Material), 8 (Biodiversity…, Thorndon — granted (DC/26/03277)
• Prior approval — agricultural determination, stage 2 — resurfacing of existing tracks with hardcore at Church Farm, Little Green, Thrandeston — granted (DC/26/03488)
• Householder — replacement of front porch, single storey rear extension and two storey rear extension (following demolition of existing conservatory), Thurston — granted (DC/26/02424)
• Householder — erection of single storey front and side extensions; Erection of gates and fence, Thurston (DC/26/03140)
• Condition discharge — conditions 17 (Bat Licence) and 19 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy), Thurston — granted (DC/26/03391)
• S106 compliance details — details in compliance with the Section 106 planning obligation, Schedule 2 Part 2, paragraph 1.3, on the outline permission for land east of Ixworth Road, Thurston (DC/26/03993)
• Condition discharge — conditions 10 (Brick Column Detail), Thurston (DC/26/04277)
• Householder — erection of a single storey pitched roof outbuilding, Tostock — granted (DC/26/01840)
• Prior approval — erection of a single-storey rear extension (Schedule 2, Part 1, Class A larger home extension), Walsham le Willows — decided (DC/26/03758)
• Local Listed Building Consent Order — Class A pre-start notification, Walsham le Willows (DC/26/04220)
• Planning application — erection of Horse Training Pen, Wattisfield — withdrawn (DC/26/02410)
• Condition discharge — condition 7 (Fenestration), Wattisfield (DC/26/04141)
• Planning application — erection of 1no Self-build dwelling with associated cart lodge, parking and garden / amenity areas, Wattisfield (DC/26/04155)
• Householder — erection of detached garage and garden room, Westhorpe (DC/26/02805)
• Listed building consent — proposed removal of existing internal walls (Following areas exposed to reveal underlying fabric). Installation of new partitions and replacement of new internal…, Westhorpe — granted (DC/26/03309)
• Listed building consent — construction of a single-storey small timber framed home gym with one set of glazed French doors and one window to side elevation, Wetherden — withdrawn (DC/26/02724)
• Householder — installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof of the existing detached workshop building, Wetheringsett cum Brockford (DC/26/04115)
• Planning application — demolition of the former factory buildings and construction of a new incubatory building, erection of 4 no. dwellings, vehicle wash and stores building…, Weybread — granted (DC/25/02757)
• Householder — replacement roof over existing kitchen and demolition of outbuildings, Wickham Skeith — granted (DC/26/02053)
• Listed building consent — replacement roof over existing kitchen and demolition of outbuildings, Wickham Skeith — granted (DC/26/02054)
• Condition discharge — condition 6 (Level 2 Recording), Wickham Skeith (DC/26/04239)
• Prior approval — demolition of former agricultural buildings B, D and E at The Gables, Russell Green (Schedule 2, Part 11, Class B), Wilby — granted (DC/26/03768)
• Householder — retrospective permission for replacement fence and gate, Willisham (DC/26/03588)
• Condition discharge — condition 4 (Archaeological Post-Investigation) and 7 (Wildlife Enhancements), Wingfield — granted (DC/26/03961)
• Planning application — demolition of a derelict building and erection of a replacement storage building ancillary to Moulton House, Woolpit (DC/26/04074)
• Non-material amendment — slight realignment of footpath/cycleway between POS and Burial Ground, Woolpit (DC/26/04097)
• Planning application — retrospective change of use of land to dog walking field, Woolpit (DC/26/04161)
• Householder — replace 2 No. Windows, Wyverstone (DC/26/03607)
• Listed building consent — replace 2 No. Windows, Wyverstone (DC/26/04177)
• S73 variation — variation of Condition 2 (approved plans and documents) of the listed building consent for part-reconstruction and conversion of a historic flint agricultural building to a dwelling, to add buttressing and rebuild part of a wall, Yaxley — granted (DC/26/03224)
• Condition discharge — condition 3 (Wildlife Enhancement Measures), Yaxley — granted (DC/26/03603)
• Planning application — change of use of land to B8 storage for overflow parking of HGV trailers and erection of security fencing and gates, Yaxley (DC/26/04047)

The ledger — planning decisions reported since 16 July 2026: 543 — 465 granted, 48 refused, 30 withdrawn.

ON THE HIGH STREET

SUDBURY

An application for consent to display advertisements has been validated for 16 Friars Street, Sudbury, on 29 September 2026: changing the shop-front signage from white lettering reading "TWO SEVENS DELI" to white lettering reading "THISTLELARK", and replacing the perpendicular hanging sign, which has a pink background, with one of the same size and shape with a white background reading "THISTLELARK" (DC/26/04252).

DEBENHAM

An application for listed building consent has been validated for 7 High Street, Debenham, on 1 October 2026: changing the signage above the door of the shop to The Little Acorn, with the colour changed to an exterior eggshell paint and the words in cream vinyl. It is the companion to the advertisement application for the same signage reported in Issue 16 (DC/26/04253).

YOUR MONEY

MID SUFFOLK OPENS A £500 TO £10,000 GRANT FUND FOR HIGH-STREET BUSINESSES

Mid Suffolk District Council announced on 6 October 2026 a Town and Village Centre Business Improvement Fund offering grants of between £500 and £10,000 to small businesses, shops and landlords. The eligible places named are Stowmarket, Needham Market, Eye, Debenham, Stowupland, Elmswell, Woolpit, Thurston, Great Blakenham and Claydon. The council's announcement states that match-funding and eligibility details are on its website. This item rests on the council's own announcement; we have not seen a separate decision record.

Source: Mid Suffolk District Council news, 6 October 2026 — New fund launched to transform district's high streets

JOBS & TENDERS

STRATEGIC FLOOD RISK ASSESSMENTS TENDER, LED BY EAST SUFFOLK, COVERS BABERGH AND MID SUFFOLK

A tender notice for "Strategic Flood Risk Assessments Level 1 and 2" was published on 21 September 2026; it was not in Issue 16. East Suffolk Council is the lead authority, acting for East Suffolk, West Suffolk, Babergh, Mid Suffolk and Ipswich, and the work covers Suffolk. The notice is a below-threshold open competition. The enquiry deadline was 2 October and the tender submission deadline is 12 noon on 19 October 2026, via the East Suffolk supplier portal. Award criteria are 35% price and 65% quality. The estimated contract term is 13 November 2026 to 29 October 2027, with a possible extension to 29 January 2028.

Source: Find a Tender — Strategic Flood Risk Assessments Level 1 and 2, notice 2026/S 000-089266

COMMUNITY SAFETY & SERVICES

This section covers Suffolk Constabulary news and appeals published between 5 and 7 October 2026 that name a settlement in Babergh or Mid Suffolk.

NEEDHAM MARKET: APPEAL AFTER SCHOOLBOY BITTEN BY DOG

Suffolk Constabulary published an appeal on 5 October 2026 after a schoolboy was bitten by a dog at about 8.15am on Friday 2 October on School Street, opposite Needham Market Library. The dog is described as large and grey. Witnesses are asked to contact the Crime Coordination Centre quoting reference 37/58374/26, via the police website or on 101.

Source: Suffolk Constabulary — Needham Market: dog dangerously out of control

STOWMARKET AND STRADBROKE: TWO MEN JAILED OVER BURGLARIES

Suffolk Constabulary reported on 6 October 2026 that two men from Ipswich were jailed at Ipswich Crown Court on 5 October in connection with burglaries in the early hours of 30 July 2026 at the BP Tothill garage in Stowmarket and at a shop in Church Street, Stradbroke. The force's release states that a woman was run over by a car at Stradbroke.

Source: Suffolk Constabulary — Stowmarket/Stradbroke: men jailed in connection with burglaries

THE COUNTDOWN

The Government withdrew its March 2026 decision to replace Suffolk's six councils with three unitary councils on 7 September 2026, pending a review. The councils' joint Local Government Reorganisation page continues to state that district and borough council elections in Suffolk will take place in May 2027 on existing council boundaries, that the planned shadow unitary council elections will not go ahead, and that plans for devolution, including the election of a mayor for Suffolk and Norfolk in 2028, are continuing.

The Vesting Day set by the withdrawn decision, 1 April 2028, is 541 days away; that date is suspended while the review takes place, and no revised timetable has been published.

This week: no new announcements on the councils' joint page.

Sources: Babergh and Mid Suffolk — Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution; GOV.UK — Review of local government reorganisation launched, 7 September 2026

HAVE YOUR SAY

QUARTET VILLAGES NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN — AREA DESIGNATION: COMMENTS CLOSE 16 OCTOBER ⚠️

Babergh District Council is consulting on an application from the parish councils of Higham, Holton St Mary, Raydon and Stratford St Mary to designate a joint neighbourhood plan area following the existing parish boundaries. The consultation opened on 1 September 2026. Views are sought only on whether the proposed area is appropriate. Comments must be made in writing by 4pm on Friday 16 October 2026.

Deadline: 4pm, 16 October 2026.

View and respond: Quartet Villages Neighbourhood Plan

CASUAL VACANCIES: ELECTORS CAN REQUEST AN ELECTION ⚠️

Notices published by the councils record casual vacancies on parish and town councils and, for Suffolk County Council, in the Bosmere Division. For a parish or town council, an election is held if ten electors request one in writing by the date in the notice; otherwise the vacancy is filled by co-option. For the Suffolk County Council Bosmere Division, the notice dated 30 September 2026 states that an election is triggered if two local government electors give notice in writing to the Proper Officer, with polling within 35 working days of a request; the notice states no closing date.

Babergh parish councils, with the expiry dates on Babergh's vacancies page: Elmsett, 8 October; Capel St Mary, 16 October.

Mid Suffolk parish and town councils, with the closing dates in the notices: Bacton and Wattisfield, 13 October; Needham Market Town Council, 14 October; Ashfield cum Thorpe and Laxfield, 15 October.

View and respond: Babergh councillor vacancies; Mid Suffolk councillor vacancies; Suffolk County Council — notice of vacancy, Bosmere Division; Needham Market Town Council vacancy notice

LICENSING: NEW PREMISES LICENCE APPLICATIONS

The councils' current licensing applications page lists two new premises licence applications under the Licensing Act 2003. PastArt, 36 Station Road, Sudbury CO10 2SS, applied by MCT IT Development Consultancy Ltd, seeks a licence for a restaurant for the sale and supply of alcohol for consumption on the premises only; the public consultation ends on 29 October 2026. Amazon UK Services Ltd, 1 Sproughton Road, Ipswich IP1 5BL, seeks the sale and supply of alcohol off the premises, with 24-hour sale and supply; the public consultation ends on 28 October 2026. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Team at Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road, Ipswich IP1 2BX, or by email to the Licensing Team.

View and respond: BMSDC current licensing applications

PLANNING APPLICATIONS

Every application validated in the week beginning 28 September is open for comment for 21 days from its validation date, via the portal link against each item in Planning Watch.

COMING UP

• Friday 9 October, 10.30am — Mid Suffolk Licensing and Regulatory Committee, Endeavour House, Ipswich: a report asks the committee to determine the admission criteria for the unclassified feature film "Once Upon a Time in Suffolk". Agenda
• Monday 12 October, 10.00am — Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Endeavour House, Ipswich: the Tenant Scrutiny Board report (voids, anti-social behaviour, complaints and housing action plans), forthcoming decisions, the action tracker and the Babergh and Mid Suffolk work plans. Agenda
• Friday 16 October, 9.30am — Babergh Licensing and Regulatory Committee, Endeavour House, Ipswich: minutes of 20 February 2026 and the same film classification report. Agenda
• Friday 16 October, 4pm — Quartet Villages neighbourhood plan area comments close (see Have Your Say).
• Monday 19 October, 12 noon — Tender submissions due for the Suffolk Strategic Flood Risk Assessments (see Jobs & Tenders).
• 20 and 22 October — Community Governance Review decisions for Babergh Council (20 October) and Mid Suffolk Council (22 October); the update to the Planning Scheme of Delegations is due before both councils on 22 October. Forthcoming Decisions List V502
• 28 and 29 October — Public consultations end on the Amazon (28 October) and PastArt (29 October) premises licence applications (see Have Your Say).
• 10 November — Cabinets: both Cabinets are due to consider the Ending Homelessness Action Plan, Fees and Charges 2027/28, the Regulator of Social Housing feedback and action plan, the Joint Enforcement Policy for the Private Rented Sector and Climate Action Plans; Babergh Cabinet is also due to consider the Kingfisher Swimming Pool update and the designation of Capel St Mary Local Nature Reserve. Forthcoming Decisions List V502
• 24 and 26 November — Asset Management Strategy before Babergh Council (24 November) and Mid Suffolk Council (26 November); the Half Year Treasury Report before both councils on 26 November. Forthcoming Decisions List V502
• 8 December — Cabinets: budget items are listed. Forthcoming Decisions List V502

The Babergh & Mid Suffolk Briefing is published by Verified Brief. All information is drawn from publicly available sources including council minutes, planning records, procurement registers, and official government publications. Links go directly to primary source documents. Nothing in this newsletter constitutes opinion, legal advice, or political commentary.