Prior approval granted for 83 homes at Suffolk House

The application, submitted by CDV Suffolk House Ltd through planning agents The JTS Partnership LLP, sought permission to change the building’s use from commercial use Class E to residential use Class C3.

The decision, dated August 13, 2026, allows the conversion of the existing building at 78 Civic Drive into 83 dwellings. The scheme follows proposals reported earlier this year to bring the former office building back into use as housing.

Plans have been submitted for Suffolk House to become flats (Image: Tom Cann)

Suffolk House is a notable building on the Ipswich skyline and was designed by local architectural practice Johns, Slater Haward. The 1969 building has previously been associated with AXA and has stood as part of the Civic Drive area’s commercial landscape.

The council’s approval is subject to a number of conditions. These include requirements for bin and cycle storage to be provided before individual homes are occupied.

Homes with habitable floorspace below 6.69 metres will also require approved flood-resilience measures before occupation. The council has additionally required the approved window and fenestration arrangements to be installed to ensure adequate levels of natural light.

Plans have been submitted for Suffolk House to become flats (Image: Tom Cann)

The development must be completed within three years of the prior approval date.

The council has also highlighted the need for environmental mitigation, including a contribution of £150.27 per dwelling towards the Suffolk Coast Recreational Avoidance and Mitigation Strategy, meaning the contribution for 83 homes would be £12,472.41.

The approval covers the change of use only. Any operational works to the building will require separate planning permission where necessary.

Plans have been submitted for Suffolk House to become flats (Image: Tom Cann)