Plans to convert a town centre Grade II listed building into three houses have been refused.

This summer, a planning application was submitted to Ipswich Borough Council to convert existing commercial premises at Elm House, on Elm Street, into houses. 

The three homes would be equipped with a spacious kitchen, living and dining area, with the houses being varied in size. 

One of the units was supposed to be a five-bed property, suitable for six people, another two-bed, suitable for four people, and a four-bed, able to house eight people. 

The planning authority refused the proposal as it would “cause harm to the special architectural and historic interest of the building”. 

Elm House was built in the 19th century and is situated close to Ipswich town centre, near the Willis Building.   

Currently, the building consists of a reception, a suite of meeting rooms, and offices. 

Elm House and Elm Court were previously on the market for just under £1.4m by Fenn Wright.