Queensbury Lodge restoration scheme in Newmarket gains approval by councillors
Indy Wijenayaka outside Queensbury Lodge, in Newmarket. Photo: West Suffolk Council.
The restoration of an inconic building on the edge of Newmarket high street has been given the green light by West Suffolk councillors who said they hope the owners will soon begin work.
The authority granted listed building consent and planning approval for Queensbury Lodge following applications on behalf of Unex Group for a scheme of restoration works to take place on the Grade II listed lodge, cottage, and stables.
The restoration fits in with the delivery of West Suffolk Council’s strategic priority for sustainable growth.
“I am delighted with today’s decision and hope to see the owners progress the scheme soon,” said Jim Thorndyke, cabinet member for Planning.
“Our ambition has always been for the restoration of the Queensbury Lodge Yard.
“It is why we stepped in to carry out works under an Urgent Works Notice in November 2020 to ensure the buildings were weather-tight and safe from collapse, preventing them from further deterioration.
“It’s why, following on from the planning inspector’s decision in August last year, we have been working with the listed building specialists Unex, appointed in November, to give them the appropriate advice and support so that applications for the restoration could come forward.”
The news has also been welcomed by Indy Wijenayaka, cabinet member for Growth at the council.
“This is fantastic news and my hope is that we won’t have to wait long to see work begin to deliver this restoration at long last,” he said.
“For too long these Grade II listed buildings have stood derelict and neglected, an eyesore at one of the very gateways into Newmarket High Street.
“The people and businesses of Newmarket deserve better.
“It is my hope, as I know it is Unex’s, that this positive approach will continue with the owners starting work on this restoration in the very near future to improve this gateway into Newmarket for the benefit of the residents and businesses in the town.
“It continues to be my belief that by working with businesses such as Unex and overcoming barriers together, we will better support economic resilience and to help our communities thrive.”