Council’s £1.5m fund to boost town centre reopens after first round awards

04/12/25

A £1.5million fund to enhance Stowmarket town centre has been reopened for new applications – following a successful first round of funding.

The Stowmarket Town Centre Gateway Fund was launched by Mid Suffolk District Council around a year ago, using income from the council’s investment in Gateway 14 on the outskirts of the town.

A successful first round saw £125,000 in match funding pledged to a new community darts venue, The Bull Room, in Tavern Street, plus £615,000 towards a major restoration and expansion project at the John Peel Centre.

Now the scheme has reopened for new funding applications, paving the way for new business ventures in the town centre.

Cllr Richard Winch, cabinet member for Housing and Property, said: “This idea behind this fund was to help provide something new for the town centre and stimulate investment. We were delighted to make the first awards and now look forward to seeing what the next phase brings.
“We know town centres are having to reinvent themselves. The council wants to help them to do that, so they can thrive. I look forward to seeing some of these business ventures take shape - and urge residents to show them their support.”

Aimed at both current landlords of units in the town centre as well as those looking to set up shop in the area, the first step involves the council working with landlords to bring under-utilised properties, including empty shops, back into use.

This could involve buying properties and renting them in the short term as well as helping to support refurbishment for new business ventures.

The fund is also supporting potential occupiers to find a location – opening the door for new businesses, pop-ups and other ventures looking to launch their first store or space.

Mid Suffolk will work alongside key partners such as Stowmarket Town Council, private sector owners, businesses and potential occupiers to find long-term solutions.

Cllr Teresa Davis, cabinet member for Thriving Communities, said: “This is a rare opportunity for both new and existing business owners - so if you have an idea for a business in Stowmarket town centre, let this be a helping hand in uncertain times.”

Cllr Colin Lay, lead member for Stowmarket, added: “We want the bids to bring something new to the town centre, rather than compete with what is already there. We’re pleased with what it has achieved so far, and I am hopeful it will lead to new business concepts to boost Stowmarket even further.”

The council is particularly keen to welcome arts and cultural experiences, tourism, community activities, retail, small business workspaces, leisure, food and drink and activities that bring something new to the town.

Bids will be evaluated by technical and stakeholder panels before a decision is made on whether they are brought forward.

Further information about how to apply