Pier flats scheme could start in spring

A SCHEME to build luxury flats on Southwold pier could get under way this spring. Permission was granted for 10 two-bedroom apartments on the upper floor of Southwold pier in April 2007 but work has not started as the owners are awaiting a flood-risk report.

A SCHEME to build luxury flats on Southwold pier could get under way this spring.

Permission was granted for 10 two-bedroom apartments on the upper floor of Southwold pier in April 2007 but work has not started as the owners are awaiting a flood-risk report.

Now pier owner Stephen Bournes hopes the Environment Agency report will be back later this month.

When the plans were first submitted in 2006, concerns were raised about the risk of flooding and suggestions were mooted to restrict occupancy of the flats to between April and October. Mr Bournes has since been working with the Environment Agency to assess potential flood risk before work starts.