Objections to demolition of 'heritage' almshouses
Google MapsObjections have been raised on plans to replace houses that date back to 1912 with energy-efficient homes.
The charity Guildhall Feoffment is looking to demolish six almshouses at Long Row, in Northgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, and build eight modern homes.
The almshouses had served the elderly for more than a century, but the charity said they were increasingly unable to meet modern expectations.
However, several objections to plans, including from Bury St Edmunds Town Trust and West Suffolk Council's conservation officer, questioned if demolishing them was needed.
Jonathan Lloyd, chairman of the Bury St Edmunds Town Trust, said there was "little justification" for the demolition, with the buildings forming part of the town's heritage.
West Suffolk Council's conservation officer said there was insufficient evidence to show that adapting or upgrading the properties would "not be possible or practical".
A total of 14 objections, some by the same person, have been submitted so far on the plans, raising further concerns around loss of privacy and parking, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
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Planning documents said Guildhall Feoffment wanted to demolish numbers three to eight and replace them with a new building housing eight apartments for the elderly.
Numbers one and two would be retained and refurbished.
Around 40 elderly people live in 37 homes provided by the charity in College Street, Northgate Street and Southgate Street, as well as in the nearby village of Hengrave.
Mark Merriam, the charity's chairman, previously said the aim was to secure the long-term future of high-quality almshouse accommodation in the town.
It is anticipated some residents would stay on-site during the works, while every existing resident would be offered a new home when the development is complete, provided they continue to meet the charity's criteria.
The plans are still under consideration despite a decision having been expected last month.
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