Work starts to transform former church in Ipswich into live music venue
The former St Stephen's Church is to become a 225 capacity performance space
Contractors have started work to transform a former church in Ipswich into a live music venue.
Plans were approved for the former St Stephen's Church, which was once the town's tourism information centre, into a 225 capacity performance space earlier this year.
During the daytime it will serve as an arts space and cafe, with room to host events and exhibitions.
Work to renovate the Grade II listed building is being carried out by contractor Mixbrow Construction, in collaboration with Historic England.
New emergency exits will be installed, along with toilets, soundproofing and sound equipment.
The work is set to be complete by next spring.
Councillor David Ellesmere, Leader of Ipswich Borough Council, said:
“This is an exciting development for our town, offering a new meeting venue by day and music venue by night for the benefit of all Ipswich residents."
"It’s great to see this important church building in the centre of our town being brought back to life as a community space – bringing people together to enjoy music.”
Joe Bailey, Director of Sounds East CIC, adds:
“The Sound City Ipswich festivals and our ongoing events at The Baths and The Smokehouse have proved the need for more live music infrastructure and cultural spaces in Ipswich. We’re delighted to help create what we think will be a game changing, iconic venue for the town.”