Formal plans for a new £18million innovation and skills centre within Gateway 14 have been submitted. 

A reserved matters application for the site in Stowmarket have been lodged with Mid Suffolk District Council. 

The venue, which is the latest plot on the business park, would provide a range of facilities including networking space for digital and tech ventures, offices, as well as training for employer-led development skills.

Gateway 14 is already home to The RangeGateway 14 is already home to The Range (Image: Mid Suffolk District Council)

A planning statement said: "The proposed Innovation and Skills Centre therefore seeks to meet the immediate and future skills needs of employers and workers in the local and wider sub-regional area and to address persistent skills gaps which will support a transition towards a higher wage economy."

The plot sits at the heart of the business and logistics park and would be accessed from Gateway Boulevard.

Approximately 150 car parking spaces will be provided towards the south of the building.

Provisions have also been made to accommodate a number of cycle spaces.

The centre will cost approximately £18.75m.

James Patchett, councillor for Stow Thorney at Mid Suffolk District Council, said: "I welcome the skills and innovation centre to the Gateway 14 site and Stowmarket, as the ward councillor for Stow Thorney. I am excited to see it open and I truly believe that it will be of great benefit to both the town and its residents."

It is the latest development signalled for Gateway 14. 

The Range opened a £200million distribution hub on the site in November 2023 and will employ 1,650 people. 

Assan Panel and Bauder will also be opening at the business park.

The Assan Panel development will cost £45million. 

A decision on the application is expected to be made by November 12.