Application to convert disused Sudbury Post Office building into business units submitted to Babergh District Council

A Sudbury businessman, who is looking convert the town’s disused post office into business units, says he hopes “common sense will prevail” when the proposal goes up for planning consideration.

A formal application has been submitted to Babergh District Council, seeking permission to turn the former post office branch in East Street into five “flexible use” units on the ground floor, plus two residential flats on the first floor.

It was put forward by local business owner and property developer Barry Drury, who last year purchased the building, which has stood vacant for more than two years.

He told the Free Press his vision is to create small units aimed at independent businesses, arguing that many of the larger retail spaces were not viable for start-ups.

“Right now, the building isn’t very appetising for anyone,” Mr Drury said. “If we can put these shop fronts in, it will hopefully enhance the building and get people interested.

“I hope I haven’t bought a white elephant, but that was the intention when I acquired it.

“It’s on television all the time, how shops in the high street are dying and how it has an impact on towns.

“I don’t want to see the town go to sleep and become deserted.

“The building is in a retail area and it’s been empty for two years. Either we keep it empty forever, or we do something with it. Common sense should prevail, and I hope that’s what happens.

“Big is not always beautiful, unless you’ve got a lot of money. Hopefully, this would give people a fair start at being successful.”

Mr Drury added that he is ready to begin work on the building immediately, subject to receiving approval.

The application is expected to go before Babergh District Council’s planning committee later this year.