A listed Suffolk building is up for sale.

Halesworth Social Club closed at the end of May and the building that housed them is currently vacant.

The property, on Market Place, has been appointed for sale with leisure property specialists Fleurets, who are inviting freehold offers.

The 16th Century property is of timber frame and brick construction under a mainly painted and rendered façade.

Fleurets have called the building ‘imposing’.

Bob Whittle, who is handling the sale, said: “The total ground-floor footprint is around 2580sq ft and the building would suit other retail uses subject to the grant of necessary planning consents.

“The property occupies a prominent central position in the historic market town of Halesworth and sits proudly facing the market place.”

Fleurets also said the building is Grade II Star listed and is in a conservation area.

Suffolk County and Waveney district councillor Tony Goldson said the right shop could change the whole of the market place.

Mr Goldson said: “It’s situated in a good spot. It would be good for a retail shop but it depends on who buys it.

“I would like to see it opened up as an outlet of some sort. It would fit in nicely with the ethos of the market place.

“Maybe the social club could be turned into an outfitters for ladies and gentlemen.”

“I would like to see the market place turn into something like you see in France. It would be nice to see an outlet because it’s in a nice situation.” Mr Goldson also added that it was unlikely to be made into something like a community hall, saying: “We have the Rifle Hall which will give you a very large space.”

Halesworth Town Council chairman Annette Dunning said: “It’s a big space, which would be good for a shop, and it’s looking out onto the Market Place.

“I know the Market Place want people to be drawn up there. A retail shop would be wonderful. That would draw people up.

“Something to encourage shoppers to go up there would be lovely.”