Thetford property in Howlett Way bought for more than £1 million to help fund Breckland Council’s frontline services

A town property newly bought for more than £1 million is set to help fund a council’s frontline services while supporting local business.

Breckland Council has purchased property at 16-20 Howlett Way in Thetford using funds from a recent sale of another commercial property in the authority's portfolio.

Peerless Plastics and Coating Limited, a long-standing Thetford business, recently approached Breckland with concerns for the future of their business as the building they occupied was put up for sale.

Breckland concluded that purchasing the property would benefit both the council and the local business, and it aligned with their commitment to boost new and existing businesses in the district.

The property will provide Breckland Council with an additional rental income of £105,000 per year, which will be used to fund key services and projects that improve the lives of Breckland residents.

It is also the first premises the council owns to benefit from solar panels, installed by the tenant in 2023.

Peter Llewelyn-Stamp, managing director of Peerless Plastics and Coatings, said: “I am so pleased that Breckland Council has purchased the property at Howlett Way.

“This will ensure that our business has a home for the foreseeable future, securing the employment of over 50 staff, a number which we soon hope to increase to 100.”

Cllr Paul Hewett, executive member for Property, Projects & Procurement, added: “I am delighted that we have added the building at Howlett Way to our portfolio of properties.

“This decision is consistent with Breckland’s commitment to supporting local businesses and we are thrilled that our acquisition has secured the jobs of over 50 staff working at Peerless Plastics & Coatings.

“On top of this, the rental income we generate from the property will fund frontline services and worthwhile projects that benefit all of our residents, particularly the most vulnerable, while enabling us to continue to charge the lowest district council tax in Norfolk.”