Developers have thrown open the doors of a former Ipswich nightspot for the first time in several years – as a multi-million pound revamp of the site gets under way.
Bosses behind a £3million regeneration project at The Maltings – once home to the Hollywood and Zest nightclubs – have given people a first glimpse inside the Grade II listed site.
Striking new CGI images have emerged, revealing what the Princes Street landmark could look like once it is transformed into state-of-the-art offices.
Photographs giving the public a first look inside have also been unveiled this week, as redevelopment work continues.
The Victorian industrial complex was a nightclub for many years, with names including Hollywood, Zest, and Kartouche.
Once at the heart of Ipswich’s late night scene, it stood empty and derelict for a decade.
READ MORE: The history of Hollywood nightclubThe historic site is now destined for modern, open plan offices.
Ipswich Central chair Terry Baxter said as the revamp got under way: “It is a real shot in the arm to see this site get underway.
“It is a boost for those partners who have worked tirelessly to bring new economic prosperity to the town.
“The general public are impatient to see change, as we are.
“There is a real confidence that we are starting to turn the corner and see real money coming into our town.”
It is hoped the revamp will give a massive boost to the Princes Street commercial corridor.
Ipswich council leader David Ellesmere said: “The Maltings is a key part of the Princes Street commercial corridor we are creating with our partners and will provide another boost for a valuable site linking the town centre and the railway station.”
Work began on the £3million project in March, and recently received a £600,000 boost from the New Anglia LEP.
Developer Mark Pertwee said: “Our intention with The Maltings is to create something new and unique to the area.
“This is a building with a very individual style, and in its restoration we are celebrating its 200-year-old architectural heritage through a contemporary refurbishment.
“Princes Street, the corridor between the railway station and town centre, is now widely recognised as Ipswich’s prime business district.
“The Maltings will add another dimension.”
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