Start of construction of long-awaited new shop is welcomed

12 Jan 2026

Residents have joined councillors and representatives of a development team to celebrate the imminent start of construction of a long-awaited new shop.

Virtus L & P Commercial Ltd is beginning site set up this week ahead of the start of construction of the new Coop store on Marham Park in Bury St Edmunds. The construction phase is scheduled to take nine months.

The foundations are due to be laid followed by the construction of a steel frame. The work follows on from site clearance and ground levelling carried out in December alongside fencing and hoarding being put up.

Oliver Cumberland from Virtus said “We know how important this is to residents and we are delighted to have their support as we begin construction of this vital asset for the community.”

West Suffolk Council’s planning department and councillors have been working behind the scenes to help bring forward the community facility.

Cllr Frank Stennett who is Cabinet Member for Planning at West Suffolk Council and a ward member representing for Marham Park, said: “I know it has been a long wait but today is one of celebration. A lot of work has been undertaken from West Suffolk Council’s planning department behind the scenes to help make this happen. On behalf of the community I serve, I would like to extend our thanks to them.
It’s a new year and a new start, the shop is now under construction, the residents and I cannot wait to see it finished and open for the benefit the local community.”

Leader of West Suffolk Council, Cllr Cliff Waterman said: “I am delighted to see the start of construction of this new shop get underway. This is something that I know Cllr Stennett and Cllr Luke Halpin as ward members have been pushing to secure for the residents of Marham Park. I’m very much looking forward to seeing the build completed later in the year and this much needed new facility open, helping the local community to thrive.” 

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