West Suffolk Development Control Committee to discuss change of use for former depot and warehouse

25 Mar 2026

On Wednesday 1 April 2026, the West Suffolk Development Control Committee will consider a planning application for the former depot and warehouse on Olding Road, Bury St Edmunds.

West Suffolk Council, which owns the Olding Road site and is the applicant, is seeking approval for the following:

• change of use (class B8) to leisure or recreation use (class E(d))
• replacement roof and cladding
• associated infrastructure, parking and landscaping works are also included

On the 4 February West Suffolk Developmental Control Committee agreed the Prior Approval for the removal of cladding, existing asbestos sheet roofing and demolition of part of the structural frame of the former warehouse. This helped reduce the risk of programme delays as works could progress whilst the full planning application was considered.

The planning application also includes provision for a large roof mounted solar array. The generated electricity will provide cheaper renewable power to the tenants in the converted warehouse and depot, along with power to West Suffolk House and Bury Leisure Centre. 

Councillor Diane Hind, Cabinet Member for Resources at West Suffolk Council, said: “I am delighted at the progress being made at the Olding Road site and am eager to see this disused site be transformed into a destination for sport and recreational activity.

“The council hopes that obtaining planning permission will enable leisure developments which supports our Thriving Communities strategic priority, allow a significant solar for business project which supports our Environmental Resilience strategic priority, and bring a net return to the council which will be reinvested in essential services. 

“This is part of the council's commitment to deliver an exciting project that meets the current needs of the community.”

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