New events arena for Felixstowe is unveiled

A CGI showing how Felixstowe's boating lake area will look after the work this spring. (Image: Archant)

The old boating lake in Sea Road, Felixstowe, has stood unused for some years and been the subject of much criticism from residents and community leaders.

Now Suffolk Coastal council has agreed plans to redevelop the site and awarded the contract to Kier Construction Ltd, who will start on the project next month with work due to be completed during the summer.

The scheme will see the boating lake and old go-kart track alongside, which itself was once part of the lake when it was twice the size, to be filled in to create additional car parking for 36 cars.

It will be a mix of grassed open space and hard standing and the area will serve as a multi-use events space that will function as a car park and picnic area when not required for events.

The much-criticised boating lake at Felixstowe (Image: Archant)

It is anticipated that the events area could attract fairs, markets and exhibitions to support Felixstowe’s economy.

TJ Haworth-Culf, cabinet member for customers, communities and leisure, said: “This is a prime location on Felixstowe’s seafront and it’s a shame that the area has been left vacant for this length of time.

“I’m pleased that the works will soon bring this site in line with a number of newly completed projects in Felixstowe and will further help to boost tourism in the town.

“We hope the space will be an attractive and flexible area, suitable for a range of different events and encourage more events to take place on the seafront.”

The boating lake was created in the early part of the 20th Century and enjoyed for many years by families sailing model boats, and later other water-based activities.