By Dave GooderhamAN entertainment venue to rival the best in the region is expected to move a step closer tonight with the rubber-stamping of the plan.

By Dave Gooderham

AN entertainment venue to rival the best in the region is expected to move a step closer tonight with the rubber-stamping of the plan.

St Edmundsbury Borough Council is expected to give the go-ahead when its full council meets to discuss the £16million venue planned for the Cattle Market site in Bury St Edmunds.

The project is seen as crucial to the success of the redevelopment of the Cattle Market, which has been set aside for a multi-million-pound shopping complex, led by flagship store Debenhams.

The Cattle Market Redevelopment Working Party paved the way for the venue on Monday when it gave the entertainment venue plan its approval.

Andrew Varley, chairman of the working party, said: “The recommendation from the Cattle Market Working Party that we proceed with the new public building is very good news.

“This is a one-off opportunity to provide a much-needed facility for the area. It will complement our existing cultural and artistic provision, whilst adding greatly to the success of the whole Cattle Market scheme.

“The quality of life and the prosperity of the people of the borough will be enhanced. It is now the job of the cabinet to consider the issue, especially the financial implications.

“The revenue cost of the building as now envisaged is already below the level budgeted for and the cabinet will continue to work towards continuing this trend.”

Events at the new building would free up the Corn Exchange, allowing the historic building to house the Bury Art Gallery.

dave.gooderham@eadt.co.uk