Proposals for Market Square in Leiston

Local residents and businesses are invited to give their views on proposals for developing Market Square in Leiston, as part of wider regeneration activities in the town.

Last year, East Suffolk Council commissioned a masterplan framework to inform and co-ordinate regeneration activities in Leiston over the next 10 to 15 years.

The masterplan includes improvements to public spaces, better connectivity between key locations, and enhanced cycling and walking routes. It also identified redevelopment opportunities in the town that could be brought forward in the coming years to help attract investment.

Proposals for 10 sites were identified, including Market Square to the south of Sizewell Road.  The site, which includes 16 – 22a Sizewell Road, comprises 3 land ownerships; Telereal Trillium, BT and Royal Mail; East Suffolk Council and a private landowner. Following discussions with the other landowners, it has been agreed that the first phase of development will focus on the Council-owned land.

The proposals for the Market Square site aim to provide a vibrant additional space in the town centre, which complements rather than competes with the existing High Street and reinforces the unique character of the town. The proposals would provide a mix of uses, including commercial, start-ups, housing, a café and a new Town Council and library building.

Cllr Toby Hammond, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for Economic Development and Transport said: “The proposals for Market Square are part of wider regeneration plans for Leiston, which aim to attract investment and enhance the town for the benefit of residents, businesses and visitors. The local community are vital to the development of the designs and I would encourage people to view the proposals and get involved in helping to shape this area for the future.”

To enable local people to view the Market Square proposals and give their views, an engagement event will take in the Community Centre, Sizewell Road, IP16 4JU on Wednesday 24 July. People are encouraged to come along between 11.30am and 1.30pm, and between 4pm and 6pm.

Those unable to attend the event in person can view the consultation documents and submit their feedback through an online survey. The documents and survey will be available from 24 July at www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/leiston-market-square-engagement.

People can also contact leistonregeneration@eastsuffolk.gov.uk for more details.