Music venue proud of 'incredibly positive' first weekend

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The team behind a new live music venue in a town are celebrating an "incredibly positive" first opening week after a long journey to drive the areas night-time industry forward.

The Live Lounge opened in Ipswich Street, Stowmarket, on Friday last week with guests travelling from across Stowmarket and the rest of Suffolk to check out the new venue.

The team, which is made up of couples and long term friends Nicole Watkins, Chris Collins, Aaron Overson and Jen Overson, said they had an "amazing" first weekend and were "incredibly proud".

The bar serves a range of beers and cocktails. (Image: The Live Lounge)

Chris Collins said: "We are beyond excited to have opened The Live Lounge.

"This has been a vision long in the making, and I'm incredibly proud to bring it to life right here in the heart of Stowmarket.

"The Live Lounge is more than just a bar - it's a space built on Live music, good energy, live sport and great experiences.

"Whether you're coming for a casual drink, a night out with friends, or to enjoy our live music and curated events, we want every visit to feel memorable and welcoming.

Nicole Watkins and Chris Collins say they hope to open the bar by mid-July if their plans are approved. (Image: Newsquest) "I want to thank everyone who has supported this journey - from the construction crew and designers to friends, family, and our amazing local partners.

"We're here because of your encouragement and belief in what we're building. We look forward to seeing you at The Live Lounge."

Over the weekend nine performers took to the stage alongside food vendors and entertainment also available.

Nicole Watkins added: "Thank you to everyone who came out to support us, we can't thank you enough."

Plans were first launched for the venue in March and were later approved in April.

The bar has a pool table. (Image: The Live Lounge) The venue features a large bar, performance stage, pool table, two darts boards, TV's for watching sports and serves barista coffee and cake in the day.

Colin Lay, councillor for Stow Thorney in Stowmarket, added: "The public's reaction to The Live Lounge opening has been incredibly positive.

"The town centre has faced challenges with evening footfall in recent times, so it was lovely to witness the area buzzing over the weekend."