RESIDENTS have today hailed the rejection of plans for 27 new bed sits on London Road as a victory for Ipswich.Council officers recommended approving plans to demolish the existing derelict building at 158 London Road, on the corner of Surrey Road, Ipswich, to make way for a part two-storey, part three-storey building, consisting of 27 rooms, with three parking spaces.

RESIDENTS have today hailed the rejection of plans for 27 new bed sits on London Road as a victory for Ipswich.

Council officers recommended approving plans to demolish the existing derelict building at 158 London Road, on the corner of Surrey Road, Ipswich, to make way for a part two-storey, part three-storey building, consisting of 27 rooms, with three parking spaces.

However councillors at the council's Planning and Development Committee voted against the plans, to the delight of residents.

Although many of them concede the derelict property does need to be redeveloped, it was widely believed that bed sits would not the most suitable choice.

Those living in the area objected to the plans as they believed it would increase traffic congestion, particularly in light of the lack of parking spaces. Some claim the area is already overcrowded with flats and would favour more family homes and less dense developments in already built-up areas like Bramford Road.

Angus Silverstone, of Victoria Street, said: “I cannot believe such a thing got considered. Homes are desperately needed because developers are concentrating on the over 55s market but bed sits are barbaric and archaic. Over the years bed sits have been closed down because of problems and yet here are plans for more. It is the vulnerable people who suffer.

“I am delighted with the decision - it is a victory for Ipswich.”

Richard Barnes, also of Victoria Street, said: “I am astounded the plans got through in the first place. Most of these councillors who decide stuff about the area probably don't even know where London Road is. I'm pleased there won't be any bed sits built there as it would have ruined the area.”