A disused brickwork site in Leiston is set to be transformed after Persimmon Homes were granted planning permission for 97 new homes.

East Suffolk Council approved the application on March 14, and this week the team from Persimmon Homes Suffolk gathered on site to break ground. 

The Aldhurst View development will bring 97 homes to the town, with 32 being transferred to a housing association partner and offered for below market rent, shared ownership or as First Homes properties at discounted market price. 

The new homes will range in size from one to five bedrooms, with apartments that are M(4)3 compliant making them fully accessible.  

Through developer contributions Persimmon Homes Suffolk will invest £30,000 in improvements to the cycle scheme on the B1122, £32,000 in habitat mitigation to support local European Protected Sites and £32,600 in Public Rights of Way. They will also make a contribution of £25,000 towards public transport. 

Persimmon Homes are committed to building homes for the future and Aldhurst View will feature the eco range of homes, delivering a 31% reduction in carbon emissions. Each home at will have an EV charging point and a water butt to harvest rain water, while PV panels will be available on request.  

As part of the Homes for Nature scheme, Persimmon Homes will be installing a bird-nesting brick or box for every home while also creating new habitats and enhancing existing areas to support a diverse range of wildlife. 

Celebrating the official turf cutting, Stacy Brett, Construction Director for Persimmon Homes Suffolk, said: “We are committed to delivering high-quality new homes that meet local needs here in East Suffolk and are delighted to be starting work on these homes so soon after gaining planning consent. 

“We expect to see the show home here at Aldhurst View completed by summer and have our first occupations this autumn.” 

Persimmon Homes is committed to leaving a positive lasting legacy in the communities in which they work and through their Community Champions fund offer donations of up to £6,000 to local charities, sports clubs and good causes. 

Last year they awarded £3,000 to Leiston-Cum-Sizewell Town Council to fund the detailed clean and restoration work of the war memorial in the grounds of St Margaret’s Church ahead of Remembrance Day.  

Ian Hamilton, Managing Director of Persimmon Homes Suffolk said: “Those behind the names on this important historical landmark gave their lives for us, and it was a privilege to be able to play a part in preserving their memory for the next generation. 

“We want to take an active role in the community here in Leiston and we would welcome further applications from local groups.”