News that a former café on the Ipswich Waterfront will reopen its doors next month as a student space has been met with delight from business leaders.

Based in the James Hehir Building of the University of Suffolk, the former Cult Café used to be a popular daytime coffee shop and restaurant, as well as a night-time music venue. 

The café closed its doors suddenly on April 1 and has not reopened since.

A social media post published by the café explained: “As the university enters a new chapter of exciting new developments, we find that our paths no longer align and their need for flexibility as their plans unfold means we are unable to take the business forward into a busy spring and summer.” 

Last week, it was announced that the space would be revamped and will reopen in the new academic year as part of a collaboration between the University of Suffolk and Access Community Trust, based in Lowestoft. 

The students’ union has voted to rename the venue Mix. 

Students have been invited to have a say in what the new space will be like and are now being polled on a range of factors, including food options, opening times, price points and décor.  

The news that the venue will soon be open once more and not be left vacant has been welcomed by business leaders in Ipswich.

Chris Barnard is the head of place management at Ipswich Central, the business improvement district for the town centre and waterfront. 

He said: “It is great to see collaboration between the University of Suffolk and Access Community Trust to bring this venue back to life. 

“This venue reopening as a new social space and café for students will provide a community hub for those attending the university and new job opportunities. Great news all round.”