Expansion gets go-ahead

A MULTI-MILLION pound expansion of a popular Suffolk hotel and golf course is to go ahead.

The development at Ufford Park in Melton will see the hotel more than double in size with the addition of 53 extra bedrooms.

It will also see the construction of a two-storey, floodlit driving range, a pro-shop and a restaurant.

The application attracted complaints from residents of the surrounding areas and local conservation organisations worried about light pollution.

Planning officers explained that the driving range would create an area of "night glow", but said every effort would be made to screen surrounding houses from the lights – particularly those in the neighbouring Parklands estate.

There were also fears about the effects of increased traffic travelling through the villages of Melton and Ufford. The A12/ Woods Lane junction, the Melton crossroads and the A1152/B1083 roundabout were named as particular 'pressure points'.

But councillors approved the application yesterday , stating that the club had already had a positive impact on the area.

A number of conditions were imposed on its opening in order to address traffic and light pollution problems.

Anni Healey said: "The hotel has been marvellous for the local economy but approval of this application does hinge on the issue of access and light."

Councillors agreed that the driving range must close by 8.30pm each evening to prevent glow from the floodlights causing a nuisance to residents.

They also agreed that a travel plan must be produced which will show how the hotel intends to limit the impact of traffic.

As part of this plan, cars exiting the site will be made to turn right towards the A12 to prevent congestion at the already busy Melton crossroads.

N Do you think the expansion is a good idea? Write in to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or email eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk or visit the forum at www.eveningstar.co.uk