Ipswich's business community has been left in shock after BrewDog announced it would not be continuing with plans to open on the waterfront.

The brewery company was set to open its first Ipswich location, but has withdrawn its plans, "due to the current challenging economic conditions affecting the viability of the site."

After securing planning permission earlier this year, the company was set to invest £750,000 into the building at Albion Wharf and create a space for up to 250 customers. 

A BrewDog spokesman said: "Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we have reluctantly had to withdraw from the proposed waterfront location.

"We do however remain committed to opening in the town in the future and bringing BrewDog to the people of Ipswich."

Businesses on the Waterfront have shared their thoughts on the cancellation of the move.

Ipswich Star: Kie Humphreys, owner of Coffee CatKie Humphreys, owner of Coffee Cat (Image: David Vincent)

Kie Humphreys, owner of Coffee Cat Cafe, said: "I know how much hype there was about BrewDog coming down, and it was filling that gap along the waterfront.

"There are all those empty units which have stood empty for so long, and a big name like BrewDog would have brought a lot of footfall down and would have boosted the local economy as well.

"When you get a large company like BrewDog, who advertise nationally, a lot of the time it can benefit smaller local companies because of the business it brings to the Waterfront.

"I am shocked by the news."

Bart Bisbal, owner of The Grazing Sheep, said: "It is sad news.

Ipswich Star: The Grazing Sheep on the waterfrontThe Grazing Sheep on the waterfront (Image: Archant)

"It is always nice to have other business in town, especially on the Waterfront.

"I was looking forward to it, it would have brought a lot of footfall down to the waterfront as well, which for local businesses is brilliant.

"I have spoken to other people and everyone was really looking forward to it.

"Just can't believe it, oh my gosh."

Sophie Alexander-Parker, CEO of Ipswich Central, said: "BrewDog pulling out of their initial location in Ipswich along the waterfront is for sure a blow to the area.

Ipswich Star: Sophie Alexander-Parker, CEO of Ipswich CentralSophie Alexander-Parker, CEO of Ipswich Central (Image: Simply C Photography)

"However, having spoken to a representative from BrewDog, they are committed to being in Ipswich and are keen to continue conversations on alternative locations."