'Fantastic news' as derelict stables to be restored

A historic Suffolk stableyard that has been neglected for four decades could be restored to its former glory “in the very near future”.

Queensbury Lodge and Stables, in High Street, Newmarket, has stood abandoned and derelict for 40 years, despite repeated calls for the eyesore site to transformed.

After a back-and-forth battle between West Suffolk Council and the Unex Group, listed building consent has now been granted, meaning the site can finally be restored.

The developers were told they must restore the Grade II listed lodge, cottage and stables before they can build up to 123 nearby homes, which were approved last year.

Indy Wijenayaka, cabinet member for growth at the council, described the decision to allow work on the buildings to move forward as “fantastic news”.

“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 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 this positive approach will continue, with owners starting work on this restoration in the very near future.”

The authority was forced to step in and carry out urgent works in November 2020 after fears were raised the building could collapse.

Then, in 2023, planning bosses granted the Unex Group outline planning consent for up to 123 homes to be built, as long as the lodge was restored first.

“Our ambition has always been for the restoration of the Queensbury Lodge Yard,” said Jim Thorndyke, cabinet member for planning at West Suffolk Council.

“We have been working with the listed building specialists Unex appointed to give them advice and support so applications for the restoration could come forward.

“I am delighted and hope to see the owners progress the scheme soon.”

A spokesperson for Unex said the group is pleased "to have worked collaboratively" with the council.

They said: "Unex has been approached by a number of housebuilders interested in delivering the much needed 123 residential units.

"Whilst it is Unex’s intention to undertake the restoration works to the listed buildings as soon as possible we will seek tenders for this work now that the extent of what is required has been agreed."

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