New offices permission in Barrow, near Bury St Edmunds, could be usurped by 30-container bid

A permission to build new offices in a village could be replaced by a bid for 30 new containers.

TWS Developments Limited has sought permission from West Suffolk Council to place 30 new containers on agricultural land in Barrow Hill, Barrow, near Bury St Edmunds.

If approved, the plans would replace an existing permission to turn a barn next to the site into offices with 53 parking places.

According to the council's planning portal, the offices were approved in 2018, with some conditions met by 2021.

A planning statement on behalf of the applicant said the containers would be an asset to the local community and the rural economy, providing short-term storage.

Four residents have objected to the plans, arguing they would be out of keeping with the surroundings, with containers better located in more urban areas.

Further concerns were raised around the noise and visual impact.

The application said the existing permission would have the potential to be more intrusive.

It said: "Ultimately, the proposal shall be appropriate to its context and harmonise within the setting of the site and shall be a most useful asset to the local community."

West Suffolk planning officers are now consulting on the proposals, with a decision set for December 8.