Decision day looms on Ipswich proposals for flats in Sailmakers Shopping Centre and conversion of Burtons warehouse in St Peter’s Wharf

Two major developments for Ipswich town centre look set to be given the go-ahead as decision day looms.

The fate of proposals to build 26 new flats in Sailmakers Shopping Centre and to convert the former Burtons warehouse on the waterfront into a lounge and bar will be decided by planners next week.

The Sailmakers plans would see 14 one-bed flats, six two-bed flats, and six studio flats spread across the first and second floors of the shopping centre. Plans to build 28 flats were previously withdrawn.

The proposals, which drew criticism, went before planners earlier this month, but the decision was delayed.

The Burtons warehouse has already been leased to Loungers UK, which hoped to open the new eatery and bar by October.

Plans to convert the 100-year-old building into a lounge – which would combine a coffee house with a pub and dining – were submitted in November.

It also applied for an alcohol licence in January.

Both plans have been recommended for approval, subject to conditions.