Industry firsts in Leiston

As the home of the world’s first purpose-built assembly line building, the Long Shop factory in Leiston helped to put into motion a process used by industries across the globe. Now, thanks to initial support for a £2million HLF grant, the factory-turned-museum has taken the first step towards securing its rightful place in the history books of engineering. The historic buildings could be secured for the future and new displays will reveal their fascinating story. Once run by Garrett and Sons, the factory was a huge local employer and its importance to the local community is set to be reflected by the creation of a reminiscence café and a Youth Shed where young people can develop engineering skills.

Read more about the Long Shop factory.

Attenborough backs vision for Broads

Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s plans to create a new nature reserve in the Suffolk Broads have received support from Sir David Attenborough and HLF. The great naturalist, and patron of the Wildlife Trusts, launched a £1m public fundraising campaign for the project which will create 1,000 acres of wildness, transform habitats for rare wildlife and reconnect people with the natural world on their doorstep.

Find out more about the Suffolk Broads project.

Royal visit

Newmarket, the spiritual home of horseracing since the 17th century, welcomed a very special Royal guest as Her Majesty the Queen opened the new National Centre for Horseracing and Sporting Art. With equine stars in a working stableyard, a centre exploring the sport’s global history and the creation of jobs and training opportunities, the Centre is set to make a real difference in the town.

Explore more about the new National Centre for Horseracing.

Art comes home

The birthplace and childhood home of artist Thomas Gainsborough in Sudbury has taken its first step towards a bright future by securing initial support for a £4.4m project. As well as improving access to Gainsborough’s work and telling the story of his life, the scheme will also draw on the market town’s silk-making heritage and create a valuable resource for a new generation of creators. 

Read more about the Thomas Gainsborough project.

Quay place for wellbeing

Over in Ipswich, Quay Place is a shining example of how historic buildings can play an important role at the heart of communities. Following a £5.1m partnership project between Suffolk Mind and the Churches Conservation Trust, the medieval church opened its doors as a wellbeing centre. As well as a space for relaxation and reflection, the building will also house local businesses and become a key part of the town’s waterfront regeneration.     

Find out about Quay Place.

Robyn Llewellyn, Head of HLF East of England, said: “What an amazing time for Suffolk’s heritage! Thanks to National Lottery players, this past month alone has definitively shown that heritage is not just about old buildings – it’s about wildlife, stories, art and sport. Best of all it’s about the future of our county’s economy, opportunities for people and ensuring the places we love can be loved by generations to come.”