East Suffolk Council
Pocket park at South Quay Wharf now open
A new pocket park at South Quay Wharf in Lowestoft is now open to the public following regeneration works.
Formally a working Wharf, which was once a key docking point for the port, the redundant area has been redeveloped in partnership with Associated British Ports through support from the Government’s Towns Fund into a welcoming amenity space.
Linking the north and south of Lowestoft, the pocket park connects the public to the Quay and the Bascule Bridge, offering a safe and secluded space to watch boats travelling to and from the port, with comfortable seating, improved lighting and railings incorporated in the area.
Raised bed planters also form an important part of the scheme, with planting taking inspiration from species native to the Broads and the coastline. Hazel and willow trees have been planted alongside alder, buckthorn, gorse and guelder-rose. The planting will provide interest throughout the seasons, with daffodil and bluebells appearing in spring with perennials geranium, foxglove, and yarrow flowering in summer.
Cllr Tim Wilson, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for Economic Development and Regeneration said: “It’s positive to see this former disused space improved and opened up to the public. Although this is a small pocket of land, its redevelopment is a key part of all the council’s planned improvements set out in the Seafront Vision project to boost Lowestoft as a vibrant and exciting destination.
“South Quay Wharf is an important entrance into Lowestoft, and now that it’s an inviting and accessible space, the community and its visitors can take the time here to relax and watch the boats coming in and out of the port as well as using it as a stepping stone to explore more of what the town has to offer.”
Following the completion earlier this year to create a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) at Royal Green, remaining projects in the Seafront Vision project which are planned to be completed in 2026 include:
- The installation of fountains at Royal Plain which are expected to open to the public by Easter next year
- The creation of Jubilee Parade, a two-storey restaurant and café along with leisure concession units, public toilets and a Changing Places facility complex which is planned for completion in summer 2026
- Installation of a lift to connect the Upper Esplanade with the Lower Promenade, as well as providing access to the restaurant space and first floor Eastern Edge beach huts which is planned to be finished in early 2026.