The leader of Ipswich Borough Council has said that one of his main priorities is to ensure the town centre is a "vibrant and well-used" place despite the imminent closure of a big-name brand.
Neil MacDonald, Ipswich Borough Council leader, has shared his vision for the town centre following the news that The Body Shop is set to close within the next four weeks.
The Ipswich branch is one of 75 nationwide to close after the beauty chain went into administration.
There is also doubt over the future of the Omniplex cinema in the Buttermarket shopping centre, with staff at risk of redundancy.
Mr MacDonald said: "While it's disappointing to see The Body Shop leaving Ipswich, this is an example of how the high street is evolving to reflect the changing state of retail and shifts in consumer behaviour.
"We are seeing positive signs from Ipswich Borough Council-owned buildings, such as Ancient House which has benefitted from use as a pop-up shop and we’re receiving a lot of interest in the old Waitrose building.
MORE: The Body Shop closure 'very sad news' for Ipswich centre
"The Botanist is an excellent example of changing retail uses, a great conversion from the old post office to a popular bar and restaurant.
"One of our priorities is about ensuring our town centre remains vibrant and well-used and is a key part of our strategy for Ipswich.
"Through our £8m Regeneration Fund we seek to encourage parties to come forward with exciting ideas to contribute to creating a thriving town centre by bringing empty properties back into active use.
"The aim of the Fund is to deliver projects which have a mix of uses - including cultural, education, health, leisure and hospitality, retail and residential to ensure that the town centre remains at the heart of our community."
It has recently been revealed that both Morrisons and HMV are set to remain in Sailmakers in Ipswich after signing a new 10-year lease and five-year lease respectively.
This comes after news that Poundland will also remain in the shopping centre.
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