Why it matters: The arrival of Lovisa brings the former Grimwades building closer to full occupancy, with the ground floor now fully let following Jamaica Blue's opening last July. An adult learning centre run by Suffolk New College is earmarked for the first floor, potentially leaving just the second floor vacant.
The details: The store is now fully operational after staff spent the week unloading stock and preparing for the opening. The new store offers a wide range of on-trend pieces, from everyday essentials to statement items, all designed to deliver the latest styles at accessible prices. Located in a fully refurbished unit, the store provides customers with a fresh and welcoming shopping environment.
For context: The Grimwades building had been empty since 2012 before Ipswich Borough Council acquired it early last year using money from the Government's £25 million Towns Fund allocation. The fund was awarded to Ipswich in 2021 to boost economic productivity and support growth, with around £10 million set aside to spend on empty buildings.
The council's executive approved a £560,000 grant on Tuesday, 10 February to turn the first floor into an adult learning centre, though the decision was criticised by the Conservative opposition as a "deal done behind closed doors".
What they're saying: Councillor Neil MacDonald, leader of Ipswich Borough Council, said: "This is great news for the town centre. We're delighted to welcome Lovisa to Ipswich and pleased to see continued investment in our high street. Their opening adds even more choice for shoppers and demonstrates growing confidence in Ipswich as a vibrant place to do business."
The bottom line: The opening of Lovisa reflects the positive momentum in Ipswich's town centre regeneration, with the former Grimwades building being transformed from a property that sat unused for over a decade into a multi-use building that is nearly fully occupied.
