What does the future hold for Rosehill Centre in Ipswich?

Both Energie Fitness and the Co-op have closed, or are due to close, in the Rosehill Centre just off Felixstowe Road.

The news of Energie Fitness's closure came in late December, as a potential breach of contract led to the gym closing.

Energie Fitness is still hoping it will be able to reopen in the unit, taking to social media to state it "doesn’t have any confirmed dates for reopening as it is a legal issue, and could take time."

Energie Fitness in Ipswich closed in December, the first unit to close (Image: Tom Cann)

The Co-op shop, which is further down the retail park, also announced it would close on January 27, with all staff being offered employment at other Co-op branches across town.

The land, owned by the East of England Co-operative Society, still hosts Greggs, Aldi, British Heart Foundation and Bargain Buys.

Ipswich Borough Councillor for the Priory Heath ward, Ruman Muhith, said: "As the East of England Co-Op establishes its presence in our region, I'm sorry to see Rosehill Co-op close.

"However, I acknowledge the competitive nature of convenience retail, underscoring the importance of precise store locations for success.

Councillor Ruman Muhith hopes the units will continue to serve the community (Image: Charlotte Bond)

"With existing stores in Priory Heath ward at Queens Way and Ravenswood, alongside a convenient filling station on Nacton Road, the Co-op is attuned to the needs of local residents.

"Recognising the necessity of staff redeployment in potential closure scenarios, I appreciate the Co-op's commitment to maintaining a community-oriented approach.

"While the closure of Energie Fitness is regrettable, the town's saturated gym market provides alternative options, including Ipswich Borough Council’s own Gainsborough Sports Centre.

The Coop in the Rosehill Centre will close on January 27 (Image: Tom Cann)

"With the Rosehill site under Co-op ownership, I eagerly await updates on new tenants for the two units, anticipating positive developments that will contribute to the vibrancy of our local business landscape.

"I also hope for employee redeployment to be part of this positive transition.

"I personally would like to see the presence of retailers that can draw in a substantial customer base, retailers that would significantly bolster the local economy."

The East of England Co-operative has been approached for comment.

The Rosehill Centre in Ipswich (Image: Google Maps)