Environmental assessment not required for plans for up to 160 homes on edge of Bury St Edmunds

Plans for up to 160 homes on the edge of Bury St Edmunds will not need an environmental assessment to go ahead.

The proposals from Pigeon Capital Management for land north of Mount Road in Rougham were lodged to West Suffolk Council with an environmental impact assessment (EIA) screening opinion earlier this month.

However, planners have confirmed the EIA application is not required after it was determined that significant environmental effects were unlikely.

The assessment to reach this conclusion considered a range of factors including the site’s location and sensitivity, the potential impacts on natural resources, landscape, biodiversity, heritage assets, pollution, human health and traffic.

Responses from consultees were also taken into account, alongside government thresholds which normally trigger an EIA for developments exceeding 150 homes or five hectares.

Despite the scheme meeting those thresholds, the council concluded that the proposal — which includes biodiversity enhancements and a 25-metre green corridor along its northern boundary — would not have a significant environmental impact.

On West Suffolk’s planning portal, Cllr Birgitte Mager for Moreton Hall, said: “The development was in the local plan, I therefore see little reason for this survey.

“However the costs saved would be welcomed as a contribution to our Splash Fountain project down the road from the development, helping the wellbeing of our residents.”

Construction is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2026, subject to planning approval, with the homes delivered in phases.

Full completion and occupation is anticipated by 2030 depending on market demand.

A planning, design and access statement submitted by Turley said the development would include a mix of detached, semi-detached and terraced homes along with apartments.

The final housing mix would be determined at the reserved matters stage.