Residents on Marham Park, in Bury St Edmunds, give mixed verdict to update over long-awaited shop

Residents and councillors have shared mixed reactions following an update on a long-awaited convenience store for the Marham Park estate in Bury St Edmunds.

After six years, construction of the convenience store could begin in 2025, according to landowner FPC (Marham Park) Limited, though delays have tested residents’ patience.

The store is planned to serve the 1,137-home estate and surrounding area and the recent update has sparked a debate among residents on social media.

Nikki Upton said: “I’ll believe it when I see it.

“Moreton Hall has a new Sainsbury’s Local open — on an estate that already has plenty of shops within walking distance.

“It’s terrible that the Co-op was shut without another provision in place first.”

A petition to establish the shop was launched by residents in August which gathered more than 400 signatures.

In the update from earlier this week, FPC Ltd said it is working with a national convenience store operator after a previous year-long deal fell through.

The project has faced challenges, including high construction costs, rising interest rates, and setbacks with key stakeholders which has impacted the project’s viability, according to the landowner.

Simon Openshaw said: “How a convenience store on this estate isn’t financially viable, I have absolutely no idea.

“I don’t think it’s a coincidence that the empty plot has been mowed as they don’t want it looking like a complete eyesore if there’s any local media attention.”

FPC Ltd is now progressing with outstanding plans to get the project moving forward once again, working with the support of West Suffolk’s local planning authority.

West Suffolk Cllr Frank Stennett told SuffolkNews: “Everyone wants this store built as soon as possible but there’s still a lot to work through.

“Starting construction next year would be great, but it’s not a guarantee.

“This store could make a real difference for the estate but we’re now waiting on the next agreement to move forward.”