Stowmarket's John Peel Centre set for major expansion

It's expanding into the neighbouring building at 11 Market Place

Author: Matt SoanesPublished 18th Oct 2022

Stowmarket's John Peel Centre for Creative Arts is set for a major expansion as it takes over a neighbouring building.

The venue is working with Mid Suffolk Council to take over the vacant 11 Market Place building next door.

It was once used as the town's Assembly Rooms and was once the NatWest bank.

Management at the venue hope it will create additional space for events, while also providing an alternative entrance from the Market Place.

Final plans are yet to be drawn up, but will be shared with the community before work starts.

Sarah Wilkin, CEO of the John Peel Centre, said:

“We are delighted that the John Peel Centre is now able to start turning dreams into reality and begin our planned expansion and integration into 11 Market Place.

"We thank Mid Suffolk District Council for its generosity and look forward to creating a dynamic music, arts, and cultural hub that supports and fosters the energy of local people and facilitates wider enjoyment of the arts.”

The John Peel centre first opened in 2011 and aims to support the legacy of the late BBC DJ.

It's hosted gigs from new and up and coming bands, as well as bringing world famous talent to the Suffolk town.

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