HOUSEBUILDER Hopkins Homes has bought the former Convent of Jesus and Mary on Woodbridge Road, Ipswich. Set in 11 acres, the original family home of the Ransomes family – which was built in 1860 – will be converted into apartments retaining many architectural features.

HOUSEBUILDER Hopkins Homes has bought the former Convent of Jesus and Mary on Woodbridge Road, Ipswich.

Set in 11 acres, the original home of the Ransomes family – which was built in 1860 – will be converted into apartments retaining many architectural features. A further 64 houses and 53 flats will be built in the grounds.

James Hopkins, managing director of Hopkins Homes, said the project would significantly benefit the community and environment.

"This project is not just exciting because of the beautiful homes that people can buy, but also we are helping the local school and church, improving the traffic flow and safety, and enhancing and improving the environment. We think this will be a fantastic new landmark for Ipswich," he said.

The focus of the scheme is based around a town house square, with the original house forming one side of it.

A new roundabout is to be built on the junction with Woodbridge Road as well as increased and improved parking facilities for St Mary's Primary School and St Mary's Roman Catholic Church.

The development will also provide four 'affordable' houses, play areas, woodland management and a new pedestrian/cycle link to Trafalgar Close.

Hopkins Homes will be providing land and funds to enable an extension to the existing Emily Bray sheltered accommodation to provide 12 very sheltered units.

Simon Bryan, development director at Hopkins Homes has worked on the project for many months. He said: "The environment will be enhanced considerably.

"During the survey an ecologist was on site daily to monitor the environment and a designated sanctuary has been provided to protect slowworms and design features will be provided at Holmewood House to accommodate bats."