Issue 14, 11th - 18th September, 2026

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THIS WEEK AT A GLANCE

⚠️ The Government has paused Local Government Reorganisation decisions for Suffolk, pending a "rapid review" — see The Countdown.
• Mid Suffolk has approved revised parking charges and a ticketless payment system for Stowmarket's car parks.
• Babergh has awarded a contract worth up to £100,000 to develop a masterplan for Sudbury.
• Mid Suffolk has agreed to buy 12 further temporary accommodation units at Northfield View, Stowmarket.
• Both councils have approved a joint planning order to speed up nature recovery and flood resilience schemes.
• 39 homes have been proposed on land south of High Road, Leavenheath.

Number of the week: 112 — planning applications decided across Babergh and Mid Suffolk this week (100 granted, 6 refused, 6 withdrawn).

IN THE CHAMBER

Babergh Cabinet and Mid Suffolk Cabinet met on 8 September 2026, followed by the Mid Suffolk Planning Committee (9 September), the Babergh Planning Committee (2 September, minutes published 3 September) and a Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee (14 September).

Nature recovery planning order. Both Cabinets approved a joint report authorising the Chief Planning Officer and the Head of Climate and Nature Recovery to prepare a Local Development Order for nature-based works — a mechanism intended to streamline planning permission for flood resilience and biodiversity schemes across both districts. A six-week public and stakeholder consultation will follow before any order is brought to full Council for adoption.

Stowmarket car parking changes. Mid Suffolk Cabinet approved a revised charging structure for Stowmarket's car parks: charging hours are extended from 8.00am (previously 8.30am) to 6.00pm, Monday to Saturday; the 3-hour short-stay tariff is cut from £2.00 to £1.50, with a new 4-hour tariff introduced at £2.00; four hours' free parking is introduced in short-stay car parks after midday on market days; the 2-hour tariff is removed from long-stay car parks except Iliffe Way; the long-stay all-day tariff rises from £2.50 to £3.00; and ticketless parking is introduced in all car parks except the Meadow Centre and Iliffe Way, with a 10p convenience fee for digital payments passed to customers. Cabinet also delegated authority to the Director of Operations to spend up to £300,000 on a new on-street Residents' Parking Zone near Stowmarket station, contingent on the outcome of a Suffolk County Council resident consultation, and to amend the Bury Street car park permit scheme depending on that same consultation.

Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee. Members considered a Council Housing Assurance Report and, by recorded vote, commended the improvements made to the housing service, encouraged more cross-departmental and third-sector collaboration on tenants with complex needs, asked Cabinet Members for Housing to introduce end-of-tenancy property visits, encouraged officers to keep using all available methods to access properties for inspection, and asked that outcomes from the Regulator of Social Housing's inspection and action plan return to a future Overview and Scrutiny meeting.

Forward Plan. The September Forward Plan (V498) added one new item since the previous version: a Constitutional Update to the Planning Scheme of Delegations, due for decision by both councils on 22 October 2026.

Planning committee business — including listed building consent for the councils' own former offices in Hadleigh, with two members recused — is reported in Planning Watch below.

PLANNING WATCH

Covering applications validated or decided between 10 and 16 September 2026 across Babergh District Council and Mid Suffolk District Council, drawn from the councils' published Weekly and Monthly Lists. All applications remain open to public comment for 21 days from validation unless otherwise stated; comments can be submitted through the planning portal reference linked against each item below.

The most significant applications this week are reported in full first, followed by nationally significant infrastructure activity, thematic round-ups of minor and technical applications, and then the Full Register — every remaining application from this week's lists, organised by district and settlement.

Full entries

CONDITION VARIATION GRANTED FOR MENDLESHAM LOGISTICS UNIT AFTER FOOTPATH DEBATE

(S73 variation — condition amendment, committee-determined)

Mid Suffolk Planning Committee has unanimously granted a variation of Condition 13 attached to the three-warehouse logistics scheme at land to the rear of Ceva Logistics, Norwich Road, Mendlesham (in the parish of Wetheringsett cum Brockford). The variation concerns the route of a public right of way through the site and associated access and drainage arrangements. Members heard from Ward Member Cllr Andrew Stringer and discussed the low number of objections and the support of the Parish Council before voting to authorise the Chief Planning Officer to grant permission, subject to conditions covering landscaping, highways, drainage, ecology, lighting, construction management and fire hydrants.

Source: Mid Suffolk Planning Committee, 9 September 2026 — DC/26/00130

(Listed building consent, committee-determined)

Babergh Planning Committee has granted listed building consent for re-roofing and a replacement entrance door at the former Babergh District Council offices on Corks Lane, Hadleigh — a building jointly owned by Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils. Cllr Dowling (a director of Babergh Growth Ltd) and Cllr Whyman (Lead Member for Property) both declared registerable interests and left the meeting for this item; the remaining members voted unanimously to grant consent, subject to conditions on timber frame works, roofing materials and lead flashing.

Source: Babergh Planning Committee, 2 September 2026 — DC/26/02318

(Listed building consent, committee-determined)

Babergh Planning Committee has granted listed building consent for the removal of render from all elevations of Little Causeway Farmhouse, The Causeway, Hitcham, and its replacement with lime render and breathable insulation, alongside repairs to the timber frame and brickwork. Members voted unanimously to grant consent, subject to conditions requiring further detail on the timber frame works, brickwork repairs and render materials before work proceeds.

Source: Babergh Planning Committee, 2 September 2026 — DC/26/02551

39 HOMES PROPOSED AT LEAVENHEATH

(Residential — 39 dwellings)

A full planning application has been validated for 39 dwellings on land south of High Road, Leavenheath, with associated vehicular and pedestrian access, public open space, a surface water attenuation basin, a pumping station and landscaping. The application remains awaiting decision.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03533

RESERVED MATTERS SUBMITTED FOR SELF-BUILD PLOT AT NORTON

(Reserved matters on existing outline)

A reserved matters application has been validated for the layout, landscaping, scale and appearance of Plot 16 (Phase 5) at land at Norton Rise, Ixworth Road, Norton — one of five self-build dwellings approved under an outline permission granted in 2024. The application remains awaiting decision.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03827

(Listed building consent)

An application for listed building consent has been validated for structural repair, stabilisation and conservation works to the historic timber frame and roof structure at 99 Ballingdon Street, Sudbury, including replacement and repair of deteriorated structural timbers. The application remains awaiting decision.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03813

PRIOR APPROVAL SOUGHT TO CONVERT CAPEL ST MARY FARM BUILDINGS TO A DWELLING

(Change of use — commercial to residential, prior approval)

A prior approval application has been validated to change the use of buildings 8 and 9 at Churchford Farm, Mill Hill, Capel St Mary, from commercial, business and service use (Class E) to a single dwelling (Class C3), under the Class MA permitted development route. The application remains awaiting decision.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03915

COMMERCIAL BUILDING AT BRENT ELEIGH PROPOSED FOR CONVERSION TO A HOME

(Change of use — commercial to residential)

A full planning application has been validated to change the use of a commercial building at Hill Farm, Lavenham Road, Brent Eleigh, to a single dwelling, with associated alterations. The application remains awaiting decision.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03876

(Listed building consent)

An application for listed building consent has been validated for a glazed link extension between the farmhouse and adjoining annexe at Mount Pleasant Farm, Bildeston Road, Offton, with associated alterations. The application remains awaiting decision.

Source: Babergh & Mid Suffolk planning portal — DC/26/03825

Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects

Three Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects generated activity in the district this week. Nine "Submission of Details" applications discharged individual numbered Requirements of The National Grid (Bramford to Twinstead Reinforcement) Order 2024 — the routine post-consent mechanism by which National Grid provides the detailed design, environmental management and construction information the Order requires before each stage of works can proceed. Separately, a non-material amendment was made under section 153 of the Planning Act 2008 to the unrelated Progress Power (Gas Fired Power Station) Order 2015, transferring liability for the substation works to National Grid and removing the access works from the Order. And an Environmental Impact Assessment Scoping Opinion consultation opened for the proposed Suffolk Water Recycling Transfer and Storage NSIP, at the stage before a formal application is submitted.

Progress Power (Gas Fired Power Station) Order 2015

DC/26/03401 — decided (non-material amendment under section 153: transfer of liability for the substation works to National Grid, removal of the access works)

The National Grid (Bramford to Twinstead Reinforcement) Order 2024

DC/26/03530 — granted (Requirement 6: archaeological written scheme of investigation, Stage 3, land near Burstall Hill)
DC/26/03802 — awaiting decision (Requirement 6: archaeological written scheme of investigation, Stage 3, land near Trenches 359–366)
DC/26/03845 — awaiting decision (Requirement 6: archaeological written scheme of investigation, Stage 3, land near Trenches 380–386)
DC/26/03842 — awaiting decision (Requirement 4(a): Construction Environmental Management Plan, Stages 6–8)
DC/26/03850 — awaiting decision (Requirement 4(1)(d): Landscape and Ecological Management Plan, Stage 6)
DC/26/03858 — awaiting decision (Requirement 4(1)(d): Landscape and Ecological Management Plan, Stage 4.2)
DC/26/03938 — awaiting decision (Requirement 4(1)(d): Landscape and Ecological Management Plan, Stage 7)
DC/26/03944 — awaiting decision (Requirement 4(1)(d): Landscape and Ecological Management Plan, Stage 8)
DC/26/03856 — awaiting decision (Requirement 8: Retention and Removal of Trees, Woodlands and Hedgerows Plan, Stage 4.2)

Suffolk Water Recycling Transfer and Storage

DC/26/03846 — awaiting decision (Environmental Impact Assessment Scoping Opinion consultation, pre-application stage)

Round-ups

NEW HOMES ROUND-UP (12 items)

conversion of existing steel framed barn to 1no. residential dwelling. Creation of new landscaped grounds with wildlife pond, tree and hedge planting, Battisford (DC/26/03808)
erection of 2No. dwellings., Bentley — refused (DC/26/02597)
self-Build conversion of the Nissen Hut to 1no dwelling retaining the structural steel frame., Bramford — withdrawn (DC/26/00757)
conversion of 3no agricultural buildings to provide 3no dwellings (Use Class C3), including the provision of private and communal gardens, car parking,..., Harleston — granted (DC/26/01374)
erection of 1no. self-build dwelling (amended design of Plot 2 from extant approval an earlier approval), Henley — withdrawn (DC/26/02545)
erection 1 no. dwelling (following demolition of existing 4 bedroom bungalow); and construction of new private driveway from the shared driveway to the south., Hintlesham — granted (DC/26/02943)
erection of 1no. self build dwelling and detached garage including vehicular access and external works, Nedging With Naughton (DC/26/03604)
conversion of agricultural building to 1no. dwelling, Newton (DC/26/03638)
for the erection of 1No. self build dwelling, Preston St Mary (DC/26/03222)
for a residential development, Sudbury (DC/26/03783)
application for Outline Planning Permission (Access to be considered, all other matters reserved) Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) - Erection..., Wherstead — refused (DC/26/02368)
change of Use of Agricultural Buildings on Agricultural Units and former Agricultural Buildings to Dwellinghouses (C3) which may include extension of the..., Wilby (DC/26/03769)

erection of a cart lodge / annexe. To vary Condition 2 (Approved Plans/Documents) as per submitted plans/documents., Battisford (DC/26/03904)
retention of timber enclosure associated with approved battery storage and renewable energy installation, Boxford (DC/26/03773)
repair and refurbish thatch roof following fire damage., Cockfield — granted (DC/26/02682)
amendment to layout approved under an earlier approval and installation of one new door / opening., Erwarton (DC/26/03744)
replacement of lion sculpture and supporting plinth damaged when knocked off by a lorry mounting the pavement, Eye — granted (DC/26/03103)
repair of a ground floor window 4, Glemsford (DC/26/03821)
proposed link connection between existing dwelling and existing separate kitchen block, with renovation to kitchen block., Great Ashfield (DC/26/02576)
installation of 4 no. windows, Hadleigh (DC/26/03922)
installation of an air source heat pump to side of property, Haughley (DC/26/03840)
installation of solar panels on roof, installation of battery storage system onto an inside wall of garage and an EV Charger onto a garage wall, Langham (DC/26/03456)
works to facilitate erection of a single storey rear extension and alterations., Lavenham — granted (DC/26/02954)
addition of decorative lime pargetting to the previously approved newly lime-rendered rear elevation. Replacement of one modern rear window with a..., Lavenham — withdrawn (DC/26/03108)
renovation and alteration works in conjunction with conversion to create of 2No residential dwellings (following part demolition). To vary Condition Number..., Long Melford — granted (DC/26/02904)
installation of air-to-air heat pump system, air-to-water heat pump boiler and meter cabinet to accompany electrical supply upgrade. Removal of oil tank and..., Mendlesham — granted (DC/26/02902)
removal of cement render to front elevation of property. Replace with lambs wool insulation, new laths and chalk lime plaster., Nayland With Wissington (DC/26/03917)
re-roofing and structural repair to roof of barn, Stoke By Nayland — granted (DC/26/03274)
application for Listed Building. Repairs as per Specification and Schedule of Works., Sudbury — granted (DC/26/02315)
additional Repairs to flintwork and external elevations as per statement, Sudbury (DC/26/03879)
fire damage repairs to listed building including new roof structure & covering structural repairs, re-rendering & plastering & mass fit out, Worlingworth — granted (DC/26/01500)

CHANGE OF USE ROUND-UP (10 items)

change of use from information/Visitors centre to cafe and extension of building. Erection of play area.- To vary condition 3 (Operating Hours) - to allow..., Barham — granted (DC/26/02136)
change of use from part residential (C3) / part office to Class E(e) medical centre, including associated parking and turning, external alterations to..., Boxford — granted (DC/26/02462)
change of use from residential dwelling to storage use, Helmingham — granted (DC/26/02159)
change of use of existing warehouse and storage facility (Class B8) to a dog day care facility (Sui Generis), Monk Soham (DC/26/03826)
change of use of land to garden Land West Of Ixworth Road Norton IP31 3XU, Norton (DC/26/03902)
change of use of land to garden Land West Of Ixworth Road Norton IP31 3XU, Norton (DC/26/03903)
variation of condition 2, Change of use of existing agricultural land to paddocks for keeping of horses; Erection of stable block and post and fencing., Ringshall (DC/26/03859)
change of use of existing public house (Sui Generis) to 1no dwellinghouse (Use Class C3). No alterations are proposed to the external appearance of the..., Stradbroke (DC/26/03747)
change of use of land for Installation of ground mounted solar panel array to serve Mill House, and installation of cable run, inverter and battery., Thorndon (DC/26/03678)
change of use and conversion of an existing cartlodge / workshop to form 1no dwellinghouse; including a new vehicular access and private amenity area, Wortham (DC/26/03848)

COMMERCIAL AND AGRICULTURAL ROUND-UP (10 items)

erection of 1 No. 13M Light pole High Street Bildeston Suffolk, Bildeston — decided (DC/26/03619)
dvelopment by a Statutory Undertaker - Upgrade the existing overhead line network Bures Green Bures St Mary Suffolk, Bures St Mary — decided (DC/26/03561)
application to determine if Prior Approval is required for a Proposed: Erection, Extension or Alteration of a building for Agricultural or Forestry Use...., Burstall — decided (DC/26/03508)
erection of 1no. 9m pole School Road Coddenham Suffolk, Coddenham — decided (DC/26/03683)
erection of 9m wooden pole, Coddenham (DC/26/03818)
installation of a 13.45 metre high smart metering radio mast, Debenham — decided (DC/26/03461)
application to determine if Prior Approval is required for a Proposed: Formation, Alteration or Maintenance of Private Ways for Agricultural or Forestry..., Laxfield — decided (DC/26/03392)
installation of upgrades at Telecommunication Base Station, Mendlesham — decided (DC/26/03349)
demolition of Buildings - Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended) - Schedule 2, Part 11, Class B -..., Raydon — granted (DC/26/03497)
demolition of Buildings - Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended) - Sch 2, Part 11, Class B. Removal of..., Wilby (DC/26/03768)

SECTION 73 VARIATIONS ROUND-UP (5 items)

erection of a cart lodge / annexe. To vary Condition 2 (Approved Plans/Documents) as per submitted plans/documents., Battisford (DC/26/03862)
conversion of disused barn to a residential dwelling (self-build project), the erection of a cartlodge, new landscaping scheme and revised site access. To..., Claydon (DC/26/03786)
variation of condition 2, Erection of single storey rear extension with attached brise soleil structure, alterations to rear fenestration and external..., Nayland With Wissington — granted (DC/26/02973)
as amended - Erection of 2no. dwellings and associated garaging. To vary Condition 2 (Approved Plans/Documents) in respect of Plot 1, Redgrave (DC/26/03801)
variation of condition 2, Erection of a driveway entrance gate and fencing along the property boundary, Tostock — granted (DC/26/02765)

The Full Register

Babergh

Full planning application — erection of timber framed, three bay cartlodge., Alpheton — granted (DC/26/00025)
Condition discharge — condition 3 (Brickwork Panel) and 4 (Bricks and Mortar Mix), Alpheton — granted (DC/26/03435)
Condition discharge — condition 4 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy), Alpheton (DC/26/03893)
Householder — erection of a detached one-bedroom annexe to provide accommodation ancillary to the main dwelling, Assington (DC/26/03752)
Condition discharge — condition 4 (Biodiversity Enhancement Measures), Assington (DC/26/03885)
Tree works — fell 1 No. Oak (T1), Bentley (DC/26/03873)
Condition discharge — condition 8 (Surface Water Discharge), 12 (Construction Management Plan), 16 (Dust Control), 19 (Biodiversity Enhancement Layout) and 21 (Land Contamination), Boxford — decided (DC/26/02672)
Householder — erection of a single storey rear flat roof extension 12, Brantham — granted (DC/26/03141)
Prior approval — larger Home Extension. Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended) Schedule 2, Part 1, Class A - Erection of a single storey rear extension (following demolition of..., Brantham — decided (DC/26/03306)
Condition discharge — condition 21 (Level 2 Historic Building Record), Brantham (DC/26/03883)
Full planning application — erection of replacement Cricket Pavilion, Bures St Mary (DC/26/03662)
Full planning application — proposed Extension to the Existing Brook Farm Battery Energy Storage System, Re-Positioned Earth Bunds, Landscaping, Attenuation Pond and Associated Works, Burstall (DC/26/02980)
Householder — erection of first floor extension and garage conversion, Capel St Mary (DC/26/02912)
Tree works — application for Works to Trees subject to Tree Preservation Order BT412/T1 - Reduce 1 No., Capel St Mary (DC/26/03935)
Tree works — application for work to trees in a Conservation Area - False Acacia tree to be reduced by 50% - the previous work agreed in 2023 - the earlier permission of 30% just resulted in growth spurt - causing a lack of light..., Chelmondiston — decided (DC/26/03383)
Householder — erection of post and rail/stock fencing and move the five bar gate on the driveway to the side of the property., Chelsworth — granted (DC/26/02757)
Full planning application — extension of storage container provision with new hardstanding and inclusion of Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy., Chilton — granted (DC/26/02917)
Full planning application — full Planning Application under Section 96A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 for the continued use of woodland and land for alternative education and special education needs., East Bergholt — granted (DC/24/03193)
Full planning application — siting of converted container to north side of existing car park, for use as Barber Shop; and provision of 3no. designated parking spaces directly adjacent to the container (retention of), East Bergholt — granted (DC/26/02785)
Tree works — notice of Works to Trees in a Conservation Area, East Bergholt — decided (DC/26/03212)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission - Addition of small window to north elevation; Air Source Heat Pump relocated further east along the wall on north elevation; High-level gable glazing, bi-fold doors and fixed..., East Bergholt — granted (DC/26/03553)
Householder — erection of a Front Porch with garage to the side of the building, Roof windows, East Bergholt (DC/26/03730)
Householder — erection of single and 1.5 storey rear extensions (Following part demolition of the existing lean to extension), Edwardstone (DC/26/02984)
Prior approval — larger Home Extension. Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended) Schedule 2, Part 1, Class A - Erection of single-storey rear extension projecting 7.0 metres beyond..., Elmsett (DC/26/03745)
Certificate of lawfulness — alterations to the existing detached garage, including internal subdivision and alterations to external openings; Erection of a front entrance porch., Elmsett (DC/26/03860)
Certificate of lawfulness — conversion of existing garage to home office., Flowton — withdrawn (DC/26/02894)
Householder — , Flowton (DC/26/03974)
Condition discharge — conditions 6 (Access Surface Treatment), 9 (Surface Water Discharge Prevention), 11 (EV Charging Infrastructure ), 12 (Secure Cycle Storage), 13 (Refuse and Recycling Bins), 14 (Contamination), 15 (Archaeological..., Glemsford — decided (DC/26/02485)
Tree works — application for works to Trees in a Conservation Area - Fell 8 No . Conifers (Leyland cypress), Glemsford — decided (DC/26/03415)
Condition discharge — part discharge of Condition 3 (Timber Frame Repairs) for the middle part of the west elevation only., Glemsford (DC/26/03740)
Tree works — fell 1 No. Pine (T1), Pollard 1 No. Eucalyptus (T2) at 6ft, Reduce 1 No. Silver Birch (T3) by 8ft in height and reshape sides by maximum 2mtrs. Reduce and Reshape 1 No. Cherry (T4) by 25% and Reduce and Reshape 1 No...., Glemsford (DC/26/03844)
Condition discharge — condition 9 (Surface Water Discharge Prevention) and 27 (Landscaping), Glemsford (DC/26/03963)
Householder — householder, Great Cornard — granted (DC/26/01846)
Householder — demolition of existing garage and proposed replacement garage 8, Hadleigh (DC/26/03397)
Non-material amendment — amendment to B/16/00760 - Use of SSQ Del Carmen First roof slate tiles for 28 Manor Gardens Hadleigh IP7 5FG instead of SSQ Del Carmen Celtas slate tiles approved in discharge of condition 30 on 22 February 2019, Hadleigh — granted (DC/26/03434)
Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Timber Frame Works) and 4 (Roofing Materials), Hadleigh (DC/26/03920)
Householder — householder, Hadleigh (DC/26/03921)
Condition discharge — part discharge of Condition 21 (Archaeological Evaluation Written Report) for the MUGA Pitches and Ground Source heat Pumps only., Hadleigh — decided (DC/26/03958)
Condition discharge — conditions 10 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy), 11 (Wildlife Sensitive Lighting Design Scheme), 13 (Hard and Soft landscaping Scheme ), 14 (Landscape Management Plan), 16 (Design Details of The MUGA), 19 (Design..., Hadleigh (DC/26/03966)
Condition discharge — condition 5 (Window Details), Hartest — granted (DC/26/03472)
Householder — single storey outbuilding proposed in the garden of, Hintlesham (DC/26/03779)
Householder — erection of a greenhouse in the garden, Hintlesham (DC/26/03781)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission, Hitcham — granted (DC/26/03665)
Householder — erection of rear extension and dormer window., Holbrook — granted (DC/26/00528)
Householder — erection of single storey rear/side extension with link to annexe, Holbrook — granted (DC/26/02741)
Condition discharge — condition 4 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy) Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy, Kersey (DC/26/03906)
Condition discharge — condition 5 (Brick and Mortar), 8 (Thatch), 9 (Mechanical Ventilation), 10 (Facing and Roofing Materials), 11 (Sectional Drawings) and 13 (Fenestration), Kettlebaston — granted (DC/26/03157)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission - 1., Kettlebaston — granted (DC/26/03614)
Condition discharge — condition 3 (Biodiversity Enhancement), Lavenham — granted (DC/26/02777)
Householder — erection of a single storey rear extension and alterations., Lavenham — granted (DC/26/02953)
Condition discharge — condition 1 (Cycle Storage) 51, Lavenham (DC/26/03800)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission, Lavenham (DC/26/03830)
Prior approval — larger Home Extension. Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended) Schedule 2, Part 1, Class A - Single storey pitchen roof extension, Lawshall — decided (DC/26/03377)
Condition discharge — 4 (Rainwater Goods), 5 (External Facing Materials) and 8 (Mechanical Ventilation), Lawshall (DC/26/03919)
Householder — construction of an entrance drive and detached summer house and gazebo., Leavenheath — granted (DC/26/02959)
Tree works — application for Works to Trees in a Conservation Area BT/40 - Reduce 3 No., Leavenheath (DC/26/03729)
Condition discharge — conditions 4 (Floor make up) and 7 (Thatch Detailing), Lindsey — granted (DC/26/03342)
Householder — erection of a single storey rear extension 31, Long Melford — granted (DC/26/02858)
Tree works — fell 2 No. Ash (T1 and T2) and fell 1 No. Sycamore (T3)., Long Melford — decided (DC/26/03144)
Condition discharge — condition 3 (Noise Mitigation Measures), 4 (Archaeological works), 12 (Biodiversity Net Gain Plan), 14 (Wildlife Sensitive Design Scheme), 15 (Biodiversity Method Statement) and 16 (Biodiversity Enhancement Layout), Long Melford — granted (DC/26/03263)
Condition discharge — conditions 4 (Fenestration Details), 5 (Gutter Details), 6 (Insulation Details), 7 (Insulation Details), 8 (Hard Surface Details), 9 (Boundary Wall Details), 10 (Yard Building Exterior Details) and 11 (Fenestration..., Long Melford — granted (DC/26/03264)
Tree works — application for works to trees in a Conservation Area -T1., Long Melford — decided (DC/26/03364)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission - Replace dormer with velux window, Long Melford — granted (DC/26/03669)
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 (DC/26/03732)
Tree works — application for works to trees in a Conservation Area - 1x Bird Cherry tree, - To reduce down in height by 25-30%, on average (3ft-4ft off sides & 5-6ft off tops, shaping in whole tree canopy sympathetically., Monks Eleigh — decided (DC/26/03385)
Tree works — application for works to trees in a Conservation Area- G1 Group of 11-12 Leylandii (one has partially failed) To fell to ground level the trees are too old and big for the location, one has failed, some are multi..., Monks Eleigh — decided (DC/26/03390)
Tree works — overall crown reduction by approximately 2 metres to:T1- Silver birch, T2- Alder, T3- Pin Oak and T4- False Acacia., Monks Eleigh (DC/26/03866)
Householder — installation of an above ground spa within the rear courtyard garden 20, Nayland With Wissington — granted (DC/26/02761)
Tree works — reduce 1 No. Weeping Willow (T1) to a 4-5m pollard, Fell 1 No. group of Pyracantha, Cotoneaster, Crab Apple (G2) and Thin crown of 1 No. group of Salix viminalis (G3), Nayland With Wissington — decided (DC/26/03469)
Tree works — fell 1 No. Pear (T1), Nayland With Wissington (DC/26/03841)
Householder — , Offton — granted (DC/26/02991)
Householder — construction of a glazed link extension between the farmhouse and adjoining annexe, with associated alterations., Offton (DC/26/03823)
Householder — erection of a single storey rear extension (retention of.) 16, Pinewood — granted (DC/26/03067)
Condition discharge — condition 6 (Air Handling Plant) Condition 7 (Wildlife Enhancement Strategy), Pinewood — granted (DC/26/03680)
Tree works — application for works to Trees Subject to Tree Preservation Order ES101/W1 - Prune back upper side branches of 2 No., Pinewood (DC/26/03765)
Condition discharge — conditions 5 (Build Up Details), 6 (Limewash Details), 7 (Internal Elevations), 8 (Internal Doors), 9 (Mechanical Ventilation) and 10 (Steel Posts), Polstead — decided (DC/26/03053)
Tree works — application for works to trees in a Conservation Area - I am applying for permission to re-pollard the willow tree labelled as T1 in the document provided, back to its previous points., Polstead — decided (DC/26/03334)
Tree works — fell 1, Polstead — decided (DC/26/03503)
Householder — erection of a two storey extension, internal alterations, landscape works and the construction of a detached double-bay cart lodge., Polstead (DC/26/03767)
Tree works — application for works to trees subject to Tree Preservation Order BT359/T1 - Fell 1 No., Preston St Mary — granted (DC/26/03511)
Condition discharge — conditions 9 (Bin Storage Collection), Condition 14 (HMMP) and the Biodiversity Net Gain Condition., Raydon — granted (DC/26/03524)
Condition discharge — part discharge of Condition 4 (Construction Environmental Management Plan), Condition 7 (Landscaping Scheme) and the BNG condition - for the slipway only., Shotley — decided (DC/26/02115)
Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Brickworks Repairs), 4 (Materials), 5 (Sample Panel of Brickwork) and 6 (Joinery Repairs), Shotley (DC/26/03822)
Full planning application — site alterations comprising the installation of plant and associated works to facilitate Electric Vehicle charging infrastructure., Sproughton — granted (DC/26/01959)
Householder — , Sproughton — granted (DC/26/02897)
Householder — creation of a dropped Kerb, Stanstead — granted (DC/26/02868)
Full planning application — installation of 4 no. Air-to-Air Heat Pump AC units (1No. to each house at 1-4 The Downs), Stoke By Nayland — granted (DC/26/02983)
Tree works — application for work to Trees subject to Tree Preservation Order - BT300/T13 - Fell 1 No., Stratford St Mary — decided (DC/26/03436)
Householder — erection of a single storey rear extension and detached outbuilding (Following demolition of conservatory and outbuilding), Stratford St Mary (DC/26/03777)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission - Removal of existing brickwork chimney and replacement with external insulated flue liner., Stutton — withdrawn (DC/26/03582)
Certificate of lawfulness — framed buildings situated towards the northern boundary of the site adjacent to Woodfield Lane, as identified on the submitted site location plan., Stutton (DC/26/03816)
Householder — erection of small flat roof extension to existing kitchen bay window., Sudbury (DC/26/03756)
Condition discharge — 3 (Surface Water Managemet Strategy), 4 (Surface Water Management Strategy - Implementation and maintenance), 6 (Construction Surface Water Management Plan), 8 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy), 10 (Archaeological..., Sudbury (DC/26/03834)
Condition discharge — conditions 5 (Internal Doors) 22, Sudbury (DC/26/03934)
Householder — , Wherstead (DC/26/03692)
Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Construction Environmental Managemet Plan), 4 (Construction Management Plan), 7 (Lighting Scheme), 10 (Colour Specification), 11 (Hard and Soft Landscaping and Boundary Treatment), 12 (Landscape..., Wherstead (DC/26/03776)

Mid Suffolk

Householder — proposed First Floor Extension, Single Storey Rear Extension, Single Storey Side Extension, Single Storey Porch Extension and Internal Alterations to Existing Bungalow., Ashbocking (DC/26/03573)
Certificate of lawfulness — confirmation that Planning Permission 3055/10 (Erection of detached two storey dwelling and double bay garage (and related demolition of existing dwelling)) was lawfully commenced and therefore extant, Ashfield Cum Thorpe — decided (DC/26/03041)
Householder — erection of first floor extension over an existing garage, an open porch over front main entrance and colour rendering to the complete front elevation., Ashfield Cum Thorpe (DC/26/03696)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission - Amend the wording of conditions 4 (Great Crested Newts) and 11 (Submission of a copy of the European Protected Species License) and remove condition 8 (Skylark Mitigation Strategy)., Bacton — granted (DC/24/02332)
Full planning application — construction of 20no. space car park and access track., Bacton (DC/26/03807)
Householder — erection of a single storey side extension to dwelling and alterations to existing rear conservatory, Bacton (DC/26/03889)
Condition discharge — part discharge of Condition 3 (Repairs to Underlying Fabric) for the west elevation of the north range only, Badwell Ash — granted (DC/26/02987)
Householder — erection of domestic garage (following demolition of existing garage), Badwell Ash (DC/26/03027)
Condition discharge — condition 16 (Ecological Management Plan), Badwell Ash (DC/26/03712)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission - approved under 1856/17 - Amendment to Materials Layout to swap Redland Rooftiles to alternative like for like substitutes., Barham — granted (DC/26/02042)
Condition discharge — condition 5 (Plot 53 Landscaping) Land To The East Of Ely Road Barham Suffolk, Barham — granted (DC/26/03617)
Condition discharge — condition 17 (Biodiversity enhancement measures), Barham (DC/26/03763)
Condition discharge — discharge of Conditions 5 (Advance Planting), 6 (Landscape Management), 7 (Hard and Soft Landscaping), 9 (Open Space and Play Space), 19 (Fire Hydrants), 28 (Ecology Mitigation and Enhancement Measures), 30..., Barham (DC/26/03798)
Condition discharge — conditions 4 (Works to Underlying Fabric), 5 (Render Backing) and 6 (Wall Insulation), 7 (New Plinth Finish), 8 (Render Mix) and 10 (DPC), Barking — granted (DC/26/03516)
Full planning application — continued use of the residential property for the keeping of animals associated with the occupants mobile zoo business (Our Animal World), together with the retention of eight structures that have been constructed on..., Bedfield (DC/26/03119)
Tree works — reduce canopy of 1 No. Walnut (T1) by up to 1.5. Metres and reduce side by 1.5 metres, Beyton — decided (DC/26/03569)
Tree works — fell 5 No. Conifer (T1-T5), Beyton (DC/26/03770)
Householder — removal of boundary wall to improve vehicular access, Botesdale — withdrawn (DC/26/02957)
Householder — erection of a two storey front extension, Claydon — refused (DC/26/02895)
Tree works — application for Works to Trees Subject to Tree Preservation Order MS41/A1 - Re-Pollard 1 No., Claydon (DC/26/03852)
Condition discharge — condition 9 (Bin Storage and Presentation) and 13 (Sustainability), Claydon (DC/26/03965)
Full planning application — construction of horse exercise area and field shelters., Cockfield — granted (DC/26/01849)
Householder — repair and refurbish thatch roof following fire damage., Cockfield — granted (DC/26/02681)
Condition discharge — condition 4 (Biodiversity Enhancement Measures), Creeting St Mary — granted (DC/26/03482)
Condition discharge — 4 (Boundary Treatments) ,6 (Biodiversity Enhancement Layout) and the Biodiversity Net Gain Condition., Creeting St Mary (DC/26/03849)
Householder — erection of two storey side extension (following removal of existing conservatory)., Debenham — granted (DC/26/01586)
Full planning application — telecommunications code system operators development under Schedule 2, Part 16., Debenham (DC/26/03894)
Tree works — application for Works to Trees subject to Tree Preservation Order MS390/T1 - Fell 1 No., Elmswell (DC/26/03733)
Condition discharge — condition 18 (Fenestration), Framsden (DC/26/03870)
Tree works — reduce crown of 1 No. Willow (T1) to 30' and Width trimmed to 20'., Fressingfield (DC/26/03851)
Householder — proposed link connection between existing dwelling and existing separate kitchen block, with renovation to kitchen block., Great Ashfield (DC/26/02575)
Condition discharge — conditions 60 (Written scheme of investigation) and part discharge of 61 (Archaeology Post Investigation) for plots 14 to 18 only., Great Blakenham — granted (DC/26/02035)
Householder — installation of an air source heat pump to side of property, Haughley (DC/26/03839)
Householder — erection of a single storey rear extension with roof terrace, Henley (DC/26/03911)
Condition discharge — condition 7 (Fenestration), Hessett — granted (DC/26/03235)
Householder — retention of an outbuilding, Hessett (DC/26/03468)
Condition discharge — condition 3 (Air Source Heat Pump), Hessett — granted (DC/26/03555)
Condition discharge — condition 3 (Repairs to Underlying Fabric), 4 (Render Backing), 5 (Wall Insulation) , 9 (External Facing And Roofing Materials) and 10 (Vents), Hessett (DC/26/03735)
Tree works — application for works to trees in a Conservation Area - To reduce 1 x Lime and 1 x Silver Birch by a third all over, Hoxne — decided (DC/26/03399)
Householder — installation of an EV charging point to be supplied by Octopus Energy, positioned on the right hand external wall of the garage., Hoxne (DC/26/03699)
Tree works — application for works to trees in a Conservation Area - Hazel tree reduction to allow for rejuvenation and prevent root ball splitting., Hoxne (DC/26/03782)
Condition discharge — conditions 6 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy) and 7 (Wildlife Sensitive Design Scheme) and the Biodiversity Net Gain Condition., Hoxne (DC/26/03805)
Householder — installation of solar panels on roof, installation of battery storage system onto an inside wall of garage and an EV Charger onto a garage wall, Langham (DC/26/03455)
Householder — , Laxfield — granted (DC/26/00905)
Tree works — application for works to Trees In a Conservation Area - Fell 2 No., Laxfield — decided (DC/26/03356)
Tree works — T1: Beech- Reduce branches back to 3 Elm Lodge Northern boundary fence line., Laxfield — decided (DC/26/03358)
Tree works — re- Pollard 4 No. Lime (T1 - T4) to previous pruning points., Laxfield — decided (DC/26/03444)
Tree works — (T1) - Stone Pine - crown raise over driveway and crown reduce by approximately 0.5-1M., Laxfield (DC/26/03736)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission - Cladding to be black rather than Sail Cream, Roof finish to be tiled, Little Blakenham — granted (DC/25/03048)
Condition discharge — condition 5 (Roof Cladding), 10 (Biodiversity Enhancement Layout Plan), 11 (Roof PV Installation) and 13 (External lighting), Little Blakenham — granted (DC/26/00081)
Condition discharge — partial discharge of Condition 22 (Fire Hydrants), 35 (Commercial Noise Attenuation) and Partial discharge of 53 (Fire hydrants), Little Blakenham — decided (DC/26/02689)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission - That Proposed Site Layout Plan Drawing Number 2242 DE 10-03E replace drawings 2242/DE/10-03B, 2242-DE/10-14B and POLP-MP-2003-P6 which will no longer form, or comprise, any part..., Little Blakenham — granted (DC/26/03146)
Condition discharge — condition 5 (Contamination), Mellis — granted (DC/26/03129)
Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Archaeological Written Scheme of Investigation), 5 (Materials and Finishes) and 10 (Bat Mitigation Licence), Mendham (DC/26/03874)
Householder — installation of air-to-air heat pump system, air-to-water heat pump boiler and meter cabinet to accompany electrical supply upgrade., Mendlesham — granted (DC/26/02901)
Condition discharge — condition 24 (Construction Management Plan), Mendlesham — granted (DC/26/03231)
Condition discharge — condition 26 (Site investigation and post investigation assessment), Mendlesham — granted (DC/26/03458)
Condition discharge — condition 6 (Regulation of emissions), Mendlesham (DC/26/03784)
Condition discharge — conditon 23 (Noise Impact Assessment), Mendlesham (DC/26/03787)
Householder — convert an integral garage to provide increased living space 23, Mendlesham (DC/26/03854)
Tree works — fell 1 No. Hornbeam (T1), Metfield (DC/26/03759)
Full planning application — demolition of existing garage and erection of side extension to an existing commercial unit to provide additional facilities including accessible wc, accessible ramp, kitchenette and meeting room., Metfield (DC/26/03762)
Condition discharge — conditions 6 (Biodiversity) and 7 (Materials), Mickfield — granted (DC/26/03039)
Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Materials) and 4 (Fenestration), Monk Soham — granted (DC/26/03535)
Householder — erection of pitched roof over existing single storey front projection, Needham Market — granted (DC/26/03124)
Householder — single Side and Rear Extensions to Dwelling and Provision of Additional Car Parking Area, Needham Market (DC/26/03847)
Condition discharge — (Allowed under Appeal Reference APP/W3520/W/23/33155581 - Conditions 4 (Surface Water Drainage Scheme), 5 (Vehicular Access), 7 (Access), 10 (Boundary Fencing) and 11 (Landscaping), Needham Market (DC/26/03929)
Householder — , Nettlestead — granted (DC/26/02566)
Householder — new front garden wall and pedestrian gate to replace extg damaged wicker fence, Nettlestead — granted (DC/26/02590)
Condition discharge — condition 13 (Highways Licence), 15 (Construction Management Plan), 20 (Biodiversity Enhancement Layout), 21 (Landscape and Ecological Management Plan) and 22 (Wildlife Sensitive Lighting Design Scheme), Norton (DC/26/03828)
Condition discharge — conditions 16 (Construction Management Plan), 19 (Construction Environmental Management Plan), 20 (Biodiversity Enhancement Layout), 21 (Landscape and Ecological Management Plan) and 22 (Wildlife Sensitive Lighting..., Norton (DC/26/03829)
Condition discharge — condition 26 (Information Boards), Palgrave — granted (DC/26/03239)
Certificate of lawfulness — erection of rear extension in brick and slate to match the existing dwelling, Palgrave (DC/26/03764)
Tree works — reduce back one side of 1 No., Palgrave (DC/26/03864)
Tree works — application for works to trees in a Conservation Area - Third reduction of one, Rickinghall Inferior — decided (DC/26/03418)
Full planning application — erection of 2no agricultural storage buildings and hardstanding Chapel Farm Stowmarket Road Ringshall IP14 2JA, Ringshall — granted (DC/25/01543)
Condition discharge — conditions 7 (Retention of Historic Fabric), Stoke Ash — refused (DC/26/02911)
Condition discharge — part discharge of Condition 7 (Retention of Historic Fabric) for Plinth Details only, Stoke Ash (DC/26/03931)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission - Changing from black timber vertical batten and board to black timber horizontal feather edge boarding., Stonham Aspal (DC/26/03589)
Non-material amendment — application for a Non-Material Amendment to permission the earlier permission (variation of the earlier permission) to change to approved window material from black-stained timber to Timberlook Heritage Flush Sash..., Stonham Aspal (DC/26/03912)
Condition discharge — condition 5 (Remediation works), Condition 9 (Wildlife Sensitive Design Scheme), Condition 15 (Bound Surface material), Condition 16 (Footway provision) and Condition 22 (Noise Insulation), Stowlangtoft (DC/26/03815)
Condition discharge — 27 (Construction Environmental Management Plan), 28 (Biodiversity Enhancement Layout) and BNG Condition, Stowmarket — decided (DC/26/02570)
Householder — demolish existing front Porch (900mm wide x 2900mm projection) and construct a larger porch (1800mm wide x 2900mm projection), Stowmarket — granted (DC/26/02915)
Condition discharge — condition 3 (Fenestration and Doorway Materials), Stowmarket — granted (DC/26/03059)
Condition discharge — conditions 28 (Construction Ecological Management Plan), 30 (Biodiversity Enhancement Layout), Stowmarket — granted (DC/26/03118)
Householder — installation of a dropped kerb, Stowmarket (DC/26/03602)
Condition discharge — conditions 3 (Materials), 5 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy) and 8 (Construction Management Plan), Stowmarket (DC/26/03937)
Condition discharge — condition 4 (Wildlife Enhancement Layout), Stowmarket (DC/26/03962)
Householder — installation of free-standing post for siting of EV Charger adjacent to Listed Building., Stowupland — granted (DC/26/02408)
Full planning application — proposed telecommunications code system operators development under Schedule 2, Part 16, Class A of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 (as amended) - Installation of ARQIVA Smart..., Stowupland — decided (DC/26/03063)
Householder — retention of post and rail fence and erection of a five bar gate, Stradbroke — granted (DC/26/02935)
Condition discharge — 6 (Roof Coverings), Stradbroke (DC/26/03973)
Condition discharge — condition 6 (Materials), Stradbrooke (DC/26/03799)
Condition discharge — condition 8 (Structural and Fabric Repairs), Stuston — refused (DC/26/02896)
Condition discharge — conditions 6 (Package Treatment Plant), 8 (Biodiversity Enhancement Measures), 9 (Wildlife Sensitive Design Scheme), 10 (External Materials), 11 (Cycle Storage), 12 (Refuse Storage), 14 (Footpath Diversion..., Syleham (DC/26/03863)
Full planning application — creation of wildlife pond and associated bund, Tannington — granted (DC/26/02827)
Condition discharge — condition 3 (Landscaping), Thrandeston — granted (DC/26/02962)
Condition discharge — 3 (Rooflights) and 6 (Wildlife lighting), Thurston — granted (DC/26/03230)
Tree works — application for works to trees subject to a Tree Preservatin Order MS85/T4- 1 x Oak (|T1) on map - thin crown by 20%; reduce length of lower lateral branches by 3 metres (growing towards house), Thurston — granted (DC/26/03411)
Condition discharge — condition 21 (Estate Roads and Footpaths), Thurston — granted (DC/26/03568)
Condition discharge — condition 23 (Site Investigation and Post Excavation Assessment), Thurston — granted (DC/26/03612)
Condition discharge — condition 23 (Written Report on Results of Archaeological Evaluation), Thurston — granted (DC/26/03713)
Householder — erection of a Single storey, orangery infill extension, Tostock — granted (DC/26/02942)
Tree works — removal of a single yew tree closest to road, Walsham Le Willows (DC/26/03517)
Condition discharge — condition 4 (Flood Resilience Measures), Walsham Le Willows (DC/26/03788)
Full planning application — erection of single storey extension, and relocation of 2no. disabled parking spaces, Walsham Le Willows (DC/26/03861)
Householder — erection of a new single storey extension (following demolition of existing single storey elements) and the addition of a porch and new window to the front elevation., Wetheringsett Cum Brockford (DC/26/02595)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission - Change from pitched to flat roof with central skylight., Whitton — granted (DC/26/03831)
Tree works — remove one lower branch of 1 No., Wickham Skeith — decided (DC/26/03571)
Tree works — application for Works to Trees in a Conservation Area - Cut back 1 No., Wingfield — decided (DC/26/03570)
Condition discharge — condition 4 (Archaeological Post-Investigation) and 7 (Wildlife Enhancements), Wingfield (DC/26/03961)
Full planning application — retention of an existing highways access to provide an emergency access only., Woolpit — granted (DC/26/02955)
Non-material amendment — amendment to the earlier permission - Amendment to the orientation of the pump station and associated service path., Woolpit — granted (DC/26/03387)
Householder — fire damage repairs including new roof structure & covering structural repairs, re-rendering & plastering & mass fit out, Worlingworth — granted (DC/26/01495)
Householder — altering existing brickwork to horizontal composite cladding & adding obscured W.C. window, Worlingworth — granted (DC/26/03007)
Condition discharge — condition 15 (Biodiversity Enhancement Strategy), Wyverstone — refused (DC/26/02927)
Condition discharge — condition 3 (Materials) Camping Site And Premises To The North Of Mill Road Wyverstone IP14 4SE, Wyverstone — granted (DC/26/03161)
Full planning application — erection of carport for barn conversion, Yaxley (DC/26/03500)
Condition discharge — condition 3 (Wildlife Enhancement Measures), Yaxley (DC/26/03603)

The ledger — planning decisions reported since 16 July 2026: 389 — 332 granted, 37 refused, 20 withdrawn.

ON THE HIGH STREET

Mid Suffolk's revised car parking charges for Stowmarket (see In The Chamber) directly affect town-centre trade: shorter stays get cheaper under the new 3-hour and 4-hour tariffs, four hours' free parking is introduced after midday on market days, and payment moves to a ticketless system in most car parks.

Among this week's planning decisions, a former public house in Stradbroke has an application to change use to a single dwelling, and a warehouse and storage unit in Monk Soham has an application to change use to a dog day care facility — both awaiting decision. Full detail is in the Full Register below.

YOUR MONEY

Community Infrastructure Levy. Babergh Cabinet approved a CIL allocation of £93,303.66 from the Local Infrastructure Fund toward the Copdock and Washbrook Mill Lane Play Area Upgrade (total project cost £129,747.49 excluding VAT, with further contributions from the Belstead Galzoni Charitable Trust, two councillors' locality funds and the parish council), and noted a delegated award of £11,727.00 toward an outdoor gym at Assington Village Hall and Playing Fields.

Mid Suffolk Cabinet approved £38,376.00 toward improvements at the Stowmarket Waste Recycling Centre (part of a £1 million scheme largely funded by Suffolk County Council) and £44,901.05 toward infrastructure improvements at Eye Banks Art Centre, extended the completion deadline for the Woolpit and Elmswell footway/cycleway scheme (£3,099,930.16, amount unchanged) to 31 March 2028, and noted a delegated award of £28,290.83 toward a car park extension at Tostock Village Hall.

Quarterly financial monitoring. For the first quarter of 2026/27, Babergh's General Fund shows a year-to-date surplus of £471,000 against a forecast year-end deficit of £285,000; its Housing Revenue Account shows a year-to-date deficit of £1.926 million against a forecast year-end deficit of £6.691 million. Mid Suffolk's General Fund shows a year-to-date surplus of £613,000 against a forecast year-end surplus of £2.692 million; its Housing Revenue Account shows a year-to-date surplus of £118,000 against a forecast year-end deficit of £1.512 million.

Housing. Mid Suffolk has agreed to buy 12 additional temporary accommodation units at Northfield View, Stowmarket, from Taylor Wimpey, under its Temporary Accommodation Portfolio programme; the decision is subject to call-in and takes effect from 18 September. Mid Suffolk also published its August 2026 Right to Buy decision, confirming a further round of council homes sold under the scheme.

JOBS & TENDERS

Babergh's Director of Place has awarded a contract worth up to £100,000 to develop a masterplan for Sudbury — the first public confirmation that such a commission has gone ahead. No further detail on the appointed contractor or scope was published in the decision record.

Coverage note: a dedicated sweep of procurement and tender registers was not run this issue; this section reflects only the one officer decision surfaced through committee and decision-notice monitoring.

THE COUNTDOWN

On 7 September 2026, the Minister for Local Government, Devolution and Regional Growth, Jim McMahon OBE MP, wrote to council leaders and made an oral statement to Parliament withdrawing the March 2026 Local Government Reorganisation decisions for four areas, including Suffolk, pending a "rapid review." The letter also covers the July 2026 decisions and two other outstanding areas; Surrey is not affected.

For Babergh and Mid Suffolk, this means the three transition dates previously reported in this section — shadow authority elections in May 2027, Vesting Day for the new unitary councils on 1 April 2028, and a mayoral election in May 2028 — are suspended, not cancelled, while the review is under way. No revised timetable has yet been published.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Suffolk County Council is consulting residents on a proposed on-street Residents' Parking Zone near Stowmarket railway station; the outcome will determine whether Mid Suffolk proceeds with up to £300,000 of funding agreed in principle by Cabinet this week (see In The Chamber). Details of how to take part were not published alongside the Cabinet report.

Coverage note: a dedicated sweep of open council consultations was not run this issue beyond the item above and the planning consultations captured in Planning Watch.

COMING UP

Babergh Council meets on Tuesday 22 September at 5.30pm, with an agenda including the CIFCO Capital Ltd Business Trading and Performance Report, the Annual Treasury Management Report 2025/26, the CIL Expenditure Framework Eighth Review, the Overview and Scrutiny Committee's Annual Report and draft 2026/27 Work Plan, and the Joint Audit and Standards Committee Annual Report.

The Constitutional Update to the Planning Scheme of Delegations, newly listed on the Forward Plan this week, is due for decision by both councils on 22 October 2026.

The confidential funding sum for the Chilton Fields multi-use games area is due to return to Council on 24 September 2026.

DID YOU KNOW

6,400 listed buildings Babergh and Mid Suffolk together contain approximately 6,400 listed buildings and 60 conservation areas. For context, that is more listed buildings than many entire English counties. The concentration reflects the wealth that flowed through the wool towns between the 14th and 17th centuries, and the relative poverty that followed — too little money to demolish and rebuild.

Disclaimer

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.