Sudbury Arts Centre unveiled as new brand for St Peter’s following major project

Sudbury’s central cultural landmark has unveiled a new name and identity, ahead of its long-awaited re-opening following a multi-million pound regeneration.

St Peter’s on Market Hill has been formally rebranded as Sudbury Arts Centre, to match ambitions to re-establish the site as “the go-to venue for events, workshops, heritage and trying new things”.

The venue, which is managed by the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT), officially opened to the public today, following the completion of a major project – financed by a £1.67m grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF), plus other funding sources.

Robyn Llewellyn, director of the NLHF in the east of England, said: “We extend huge congratulations to the Churches Conservation Trust for introducing the Sudbury Arts Centre. Thanks to the support of National Lottery players, the restoration of St Peter's, a significant landmark for Sudbury, has been made possible, preserving its history for future generations.

These projects show how preserving and showcasing cultural heritage can positively impact places like this wonderful market town.”

The church was vested into the care of CCT in 1976 and the new brand of Sudbury Arts Centre was chosen after a six-month consultation process, led by Sudbury-based business consultancy Mackman. The exercise included input from CCT, the Friends of St Peter’s, and The Bridge Project charity, as well as feedback from community groups. A new operational partnership was announced at the start of this year, which will see The Bridge Project take charge of running Sudbury Arts Centre when activities resume.

Key contributors hope that the centre’s relaunch – along with the recent expansion of Gainsborough’s House – will play a significant role in boosting the Sudbury visitor economy.

Paul Mackman, managing director of The Mackman Group and trustee at The Bridge Project, said: “We are proud of our partnership with the project. Sudbury Arts Centre will deliver far-reaching social benefit for Sudbury and the surrounding communities. We are committed to continue our charitable support as part of our drive to demonstrate that business is not just about profit – it can also be a force for good.”

Dave Jackson, chief executive of The Bridge Project, added: “It has been a pleasure to meet and work with so many influential individuals, including the trustees of the Churches Conservation Trust, who have worked so hard to future-proof this community asset. We all share the same values and vision about the venue and its important position in the community, and we are delighted to see the finish line now and prepare to reintroduce this landmark to the community.”

Simon Wiles, Head of South East at the Churches Conservation Trust said: "This regeneration helps to underpin the Churches Conservation Trust's strategy in working alongside community partners and stakeholders to take care of these important buildings for future generations. We thank The Bridge Project and The Mackman Group for their continued guidance and for offering their combined expertise throughout this undertaking.”

With thanks to National Lottery players, this project has been funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Find out more about the project and event at: sudburyartscentre.com