East Suffolk Council

Following a review of ambitions for the Cultural Quarter project in Lowestoft town centre, and a considerable change in market conditions, a revised and updated plan for the site will now progress to the final build stage. 
 
The scheme is intended to deliver new leisure, restaurant, and cultural opportunities on the site of the former multi-storey car park and the Marina Customer Services Centre. It forms part of the Lowestoft Regeneration Programme as part of the £24.9m provided through the Town Deals and Levelling up fund from MHCLG to transform and diversify the town centre, unlock private and public investment, attract younger people, create high-skilled jobs, enhance the nighttime economy and capitalize on the town's heritage and cultural assets. 
 
These government funds have unlocked a further £32m (£18m of which is direct ESC funding) in match funding signifying a total of £59m investment in the town.  
 
Earlier this year, discussions took place with Anglian Water in relation to building over an established sewer and this led to an outline redesign for the project. At this point the Council also took the opportunity to review the demand from the commercial leisure market and cultural sector to ensure changes meet current industry demand.  
 
Encouraging feedback from food and beverage providers who are interested in the development as were expressions of interest to operate the community and cultural elements of the development. However, to date, there has been minimal interest in demand for commercial leisure provision within the complex – reflecting national challenges faced by the commercial leisure sector.  
 
Given this change in demand and the high risk of developing part of a complex that is likely to remain vacant, it was agreed that the most viable and prudent option given the circumstances are:  

This approach maintains the ambition of the original vision while responding to current market realities. It ensures sustainable use of Council assets, aligns with community and operator demand, and keeps the project deliverable within Town Deal parameters including objectives, outcome targets and timescales. 
 
Construction work will recommence in the Spring with completion during 2027. Ahead of this, we will engage with the public about the new designs while fresh planning consent is sought. 
 
Cllr Tim Wilson, Cabinet Member for Economic development and Regeneration said: “The original concept was developed three years ago and has evolved through planning feedback, market engagement, and refinement to reflect operator needs.   
 
“The project was designed to be ambitious and remains so, because the town needs to diversify beyond retail. However, the market has changed since we started, and through our on-going review process we are making changes to ensure the project remains viable and will have a positive impact on both the town’s businesses and its community. 
 
“We have reviewed the project to ensure we deliver the best outcomes for our community and visitors. This approach maintains the ambition of the original vision while responding to current market realities. It ensures sustainable use buildings, aligns with community and operator demand, and keeps the project deliverable within Town Deal timescales.”