Plans for 660 homes with nursery in Ipswich refused

Plans were put in place for up to 660 homes in Humber Doucy Lane in Ipswich

Plans for more than 600 homes on the outskirts of a town have been rejected due to a lack of consideration for "community needs" in the proposal.

On Tuesday, Ipswich Borough Council (IBC) and East Suffolk Council refused planning permission for mixed-use development of 660 homes, retail space and a nursery for 57 children at Humber Doucy Lane in Ipswich.

The authorities said the decision followed a detailed assessment process.

Following a review, both councils said while site plans - submitted on behalf of Barratt David Wilson and Hopkins Homes - held strategic importance, they needed to align with their "strategic vision for sustainable and balanced growth".

Part of the site, which totals 79 acres (31.5 hectares), currently houses two sports pitches used by Ipswich Rugby Club.

In a joint statement, the councils said: "The development of new housing, and especially affordable housing, is a top priority, especially on sites allocated within our local plans."

The authorities added the rejection was about "preserving the quality of life for our residents, protecting our environment, and ensuring that any new developments are in the best interests of our community as a whole".

They said they would instead be be seeking a scheme that was masterplan led, making the most of landscape open space and would provide safe highways connectivity.