An application has been submitted to convert the former Bonmarché in Ipswich high street into three retail units and three flats. 

The proposal seeks to bring the three-storey building at 50 - 54 Westgate Street "back into use" by establishing new shop space and transforming the first floor office space into residential dwellings.

Following the departure of Bonmarché in 2019, the site has been used as flexible and lettable office space without any one specific tenant.

The applicant claims the plans would secure "continued commercial use and presence along the high street", while a conversion to flats "utilises an underutilised space, which would be difficult to let as an office independently noting the rise of working from home."

A pre-application submitted to Ipswich Borough Council received positive feedback: "The Council is supportive of town centre living.

"In particular, care would need to be taken with the protection of the amenities of exiting residents with regard to any overlooking and noise disturbance, as well as future occupants.

"It is concluded based on the submitted plans, and subject to comments above, that the proposals could be supported by Officers."