Images give first look in to new arts hub

Lowestoft's former post office will be turned into a new arts venue by spring 2026

Work to turn the inside of a vacant post office into a new arts venue is set to begin.

Lowestoft's former post office has been empty since 2017 and is owned by East Suffolk Council.

The council's planning committee approved plans a year ago to create the new venue in the Grade II listed building as part of a wider regeneration project.

Helen Johnson, culture and heritage programme manager at the council, said work on the exterior had already taken place and the council aimed to open the venue in a year's time.

The plans include a new collaboration space inside the new venue

The council appointed Ipswich-based Barnes Construction to undertake the internal works.

Once completed, the venue will provide space for a revolving residency of international, national and regional artists as well as exhibition spaces, work studios, a screening room and cafe with outdoor seating, the council said.

It will be managed by art specialists Messums East and the building will also provide a work studio for Laurence Edwards - an internationally renowned sculptor born and raised in East Suffolk.

The project has been funded by the council and Arts Council England as well as the government's Towns Fund

"Work to the outside of the building has already been recognised for its quality and craftsmanship – and we're now looking forward to the inside taking shape," Johnson said.

"Once complete, the new venue will provide cultural opportunities and attract more visitors to the town."

Other projects in the town have also been planned, including a new seafront complex being built at Jubilee Parade, improvements at Royal Plain and redevelopment of Battery Green car park.