Plans have been re-submitted for a new wellness centre in a small Suffolk village, and it’s shaping up to be an exciting project. The proposal for The Wellness Centre, located at Second Meadow Stables on Brent Eleigh Road in Lavenham, has been sent to Babergh District Council for approval. This isn’t the first time the plans have been put forward—the initial application got turned down due to issues with the location being outside the village boundary, accessibility problems, and concerns about flooding.
But this time around, after getting some fresh advice, the applicants believe they’ve addressed all those concerns.
So, what’s the plan? Well, the centre is set to include a swimming pool, a changing room and sauna, relaxation spaces, treatment rooms, an outdoor yoga area, a small gym, and even a café and restaurant. Sounds like a perfect spot to unwind and recharge!
The site is right next to Lavenham Studios, a little commercial hub that’s already home to things like a physiotherapy centre, an acupuncture clinic, and personal training facilities. It’s a pretty natural fit, really. The land, which was most recently used for keeping horses, will need to clear out some of the old structures to make way for the wellness centre.
This new application also comes with some extra details—a flood risk and drainage strategy, a new layout that makes better use of what’s already there, and some improvements to biodiversity. They’ve also worked with local authorities like the parish council, Suffolk County Council’s Public Right of Ways, and the Environment Agency to get everything in line.
The applicants are confident this version of the plan matches both the Lavenham Neighbourhood Plan and the emerging Local Plan. They’re hoping it will attract tourists and create job opportunities for locals. Plus, they’ve even included extra parking just outside the village, which should be handy for visitors.
In their statement, the applicants highlight how important health and wellness have become, especially in a post-COVID world. They mention that having access to well-maintained, conveniently located facilities can make a huge difference in people’s physical and mental health—something that’s hard to achieve at home. Their goal with Lavenham Wellness is to provide affordable access to these facilities and work closely with the local community to improve everyone’s well-being.
They’ve got big plans: a fully equipped gym, swim spas, a sauna, and a steam room, all aimed at serving both locals and tourists, whether they’re just popping by for a day or staying a bit longer. They’re particularly keen to get the local Lavenham residents involved.
Interestingly, two of the existing barns on the site will be kept and transformed into treatment rooms, while a kiosk will be built where the old stables stood. The café, meanwhile, will take over the spot that used to house the horse walker.
The application seems to be getting some love too—it’s already received six public comments in support.
If all goes to plan, Lavenham might soon have a brand-new destination for health, wellness, and relaxation!
