It has been revealed that Waveney Distict Council is to pull out of its deal to buy the former Sanyo site, saying the manufacturer did not clear the site as agreed. Here people involved in the town give their reaction.

Lowestoft businessman Peter Colby submitted a bid to buy the site for £2.4million.

However, it was eventually Waveney District Council's bid – thought to be more than £2million – which was accepted, with contracts exchanged in August 2014.

Mr Colby said he was shocked by the council's decision to pull out, saying his proposal to set up industrial units for fledgling firms and creating new jobs – as well as building some new homes – would have been a much better use for the site.

He said: 'I'd still be interested in buying it and developing it for industrial use.

'I think the whole area should be used for the development of commercial activity in Lowestoft. 'Lowestoft desperately needs commercial activity.'

Mike Warner, a resident of nearby Heath Road – who along with other residents has opposed the proposals – said: 'For us as residents, it's fantastic news.

'In our view, the council haven't listened to us throughout. We give our opinion and it just seems to get ignored.

'Maybe this is a chance for a new buyer to listen to the residents and work with us, instead of against us.

'It would be even better if Peter Colby had the chance to buy it, as then we'd know he'd work with us.'

Mr Warner said he supported Mr Colby's plan to develop the site for commercial activity.