Future of Stowmarket arts hub secured
Plans to make Stowmarket a hub for creative arts one step closer
A former bank on Market Place in Stowmarket is going to be used as a hub for arts and culture in the town.
Mid Suffolk District Council's voted in favour of giving the arts centre a 40-year lease to the John Peel Centre.
It's hoped the move will provide the venue with a 'front door' on to the town centre to bring arts, leisure and entertainment.
The authority says the decision will create the right conditions for the town to grow as a centre of excellence for creative arts, culture and technical innovations.
Councillor Peter Gould, who's the council's cabinet member for assets and investment, said: "This is really great news for Stowmarket and will provide a major step forward as we look to make the town a gateway into Suffolk and the ‘go to’ place for arts, entertainment and culture.”
Cllr Gerard Brewster, Mid Suffolk District Council’s cabinet member for economy, said: “This is an example of how we are investing in the future regeneration of our towns.
"By working with the John Peel Centre to give people a fresh and exciting offer we can increase visitor numbers to the town, which will provide an economic boost as well.”
It's one of a number of projects to improve the arts offering in the town, including a £3.6m expansion and refurbishment of the Regal Theatre.