Mill could be restored to its former glory

20 January 2010

AN HISTORIC water mill looks set to be restored to its former glory.

Babergh District Council has received fresh proposals to convert the Grade II listed Sproughton Watermill, near Ipswich, into a residential property.

Although a scheme for the 19th Century building has already been given the green light developers want to slightly alter the plan – which requires new consent.

Owner Richard Howard has now tabled proposals with the district council for conversion of the mill into a single residential property, including the erection of a footbridge over the river, new vehicular access and internal alterations.

Mr Howard, managing director of Fastracker Development in Ipswich, said: “We already have full planning permission for it to go ahead – we want to make it into a house. “Hopefully we will be starting in March. It’s a very exciting project – the property has a lovely aspect and it is one of the more interesting buildings on the edge of Ipswich.”

The present water mill dates from about 1820 after being rebuilt by millwright Sir William Cubitt.

A few years ago it was the centre of a dispute between a previous owner and Babergh District Council, which was forced to step in and carry out repair work to the building. Peter Wells, a partner with architects Barefoot and Gilles, said: “The mill has a colourful planning history. Babergh District Council ended up owning the mill and it was bought by our client for his own private residence.

“We already have permission to convert it, including listed building consent. However, we now want to do some-thing slightly different to what has been approved so we have to re-apply for permission.

“Hopefully we should start work in around three months time so that it is ready for Christmas or early next year.”


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