An historic early 19th century Suffolk water mill is set to be converted into a home that will "enable its long-term survival and preservation," the developer's agent has said.

Ian Johnston has applied to East Suffolk Council for permission to convert Bucklesham Water Mill in Newbourne Road into a property.

The mill was built in 1829 and largely run by the Daniel family, with the last miller being recorded as Henry Daniel in 1896.

READ MORE: Victorian Water Mill just outside Ipswich up for auction

In 1977, the mill house was demolished and the mill building was converted into an office, which was the building's previous use before the latest plans were submitted.

In 2021, the mill was listed for auction through Goldings Auctions and sold for £140,000.

In a planning statement submitted with the application, the applicant's agent Ben Willis, of Vision Design and Planning Consultants, said the final design alterations and restoration works had been undertaken in consultation with the appointed historic building advisor.

The mill sits within a flood plain and Mr Willis said by its nature, the mill had been designed to withstand flood events, while the floor plans had been designed so there were no vulnerable rooms provided on the ground floor.

READ MORE: Felixstowe news

The three storey building is situated in a part-gated compound shared with Anglian Water, with access provided through the site to the water company's infrastructure.

Mr Willis added: "The proposed alterations have been born out of consultation with the appointed historic building consultant to deliver a dwelling that will enable the long term survival and preservation of the water mill whilst highlighting its significance." 

READ MORE: Suffolk news