The new ceremony room will offer seating for approximately 35 guests, and is close to hospitality venues that newlyweds could choose for their receptions and celebrations – including space for wedding receptions in the Town Hall itself.
A date for the move will be confirmed once work begins to refurbish the Pickwick Room. All couples whose ceremony bookings are impacted by the change will be contacted when dates can be confirmed. If any couple are not happy that the new venue is suitable for their ceremony, the council will be happy to offer to refund their deposit. Any couples that have already sent out invitations will be reimbursed for the costs for any reprinting needed.
As part of the planned relocation of the Registrars Service from St Peter House, the office functions of the service will also move. All registration of birth, death and marriage appointments will be carried out at Endeavour House, which will also offer a walk-in reception service and more modern facilities. It will also be fully accessible giving improved access for all customers, as well as there being more parking options available close by.
Ipswich Borough Council will acquire the freehold interest on St Peter’s House. This is subject to a lease back to Suffolk County Council until the Ceremony Team at Suffolk County Council are relocated.
Councillor Andrew Reid, Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Public Health, Public Protection and Communities said:
