Former gas works and fire station in Eye set for redevelopment after Mid Suffolk Council approves plans

Planners will demolish a town’s former gas works and fire station after permission was given to develop the site.

Mid Suffolk Council has approved Amber Real Estate Investments’ plan to knock down the Grade II-listed building in Magdalen Street in Eye as well as another store, to build two homes, while extending and converting an additional building into a bungalow.

There had been objections about the plans from the likes of Suffolk Industrial Archaeology Society, who argued the site had “architectural and historical interest.”

In a written submission to Mid Suffolk District Council, the society said the site’s main building – a 19th century retort house that baked raw material to make gas – was one of only three still complete in Suffolk.

“We consider it to be a survival worthy of retention due to its architectural and historical interest,” read the society’s objection.

Developer Amber Real Estate Investments said the old fire station was is in a poor state of repair, with issues including damaged masonry walls and a first floor which was no longer load-bearing.

In a statement, the firm said: “Significant work would be needed to make the necessary repairs. With viability considerations taken into account, it is considered that demolishing it would be the most suitable approach.

“Meanwhile, the store, which is of no historic or architectural merit, is experiencing subsidence to the rear, the roof structure is damaged, and the concrete frame is in poor condition; the survey recommends demolition as a result.”