Site of old gas works and former fire station in Eye ‘worthy of retention’, says Suffolk Industrial Archaeology Society

Planners have been urged to stop a former gas works and fire station from being demolished due to its “architectural and historical interest”.

Suffolk Industrial Archaeology Society made the statement in its objection to proposals to knock down the Grade II-listed building in Magdalen Street in Eye.

A developer is seeking permission to build a replacement building comprising of two homes, while extending and converting an additional building into a bungalow.

But 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.”

The district council said staff were looking at the consultees’ comments and that the next step for the application had not been decided.