A high-end clothing brand has revealed plans to open a new shop in Ipswich, signalling another vote of confidence in the town centre.
Joules has submitted a planning application to Ipswich Borough Council linked to a move into a site currently occupied by Regatta in Butter Market.
The retailer has applied to install a new entrance and new branding on the shop front which will go before the council at a later date.
Paul Clement, chief executive of Ipswich Central, the town’s Business Improvement District, said it would be a welcome addition to the high street.
“It is a quality brand,” he said. “It is a brand the town has missed.
“I’m not surprised they are going into the Butter Market area.
“It seems indicative of their retail offering. “I think it is very good news for the town.”
The announcement is another boost for Ipswich following a string of new arrivals in the town centre.
Jack Wills, an upmarket label similar to Joules, opened a store in Tavern Street in June after months of speculation.
The restyled Sailmakers Shopping Centre has also attracted a number of fresh traders, including Pandora and Yours.
Perhaps the town’s biggest success story is the Buttermarket Centre, which last year reopened as a leisure mall following a multi-million-pound redevelopment.
Since then it has lured names never before seen in Ipswich, including Wagamama, Cosy Club, Pure Gym and Byron Burger.
Last week the first dedicated Krispy Kreme outlet opened in the centre, and next month Empire Cinema is expected to launch.
Joules has plans to overhaul the unit at 21-21a Butter Market, which was formerly run by Hawkshead.
It wants to redesign the facade in its traditional yellow and blue branding and create two entrances.
Within the planning application, the author said: “Joules now have over 60 shops in the UK, the majority of which are within conservation areas in historic town settings where the colour scheme for signage is navy lettering on a yellow ochre background.
“Joules also paint their shop fronts in yellow ochre which is prominent in the Joules brand palette.”
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