A much-loved east Suffolk farm shop - renowned in its heyday as a strawberry picking venue - could be revived after closing suddenly in March.

The announcement that Goslings Farm Shop, Garden Centre and Café in Trimley St Martin would be closing was greeted with sadness and concern that the site could be used for new homes.

However, Felixstowe resident Amy Bateman, who runs events company Bateman Elegant Events, is hoping to raise funds to buy the site and transform it into a farming and events venue, taking inspiration from previous staff and other projects, such as Norfolk nature reserve Wild Ken Hill.

READ MORE: Sadness as Goslings Farm Shop near Felixstowe closes

She said she had received interest from at least 16 local businesses in using the site and the number was growing daily.

Her plan includes redeveloping the derelict farm shop and cafe into a pavilion that could host gigs by local musicians, weddings, sporting events, outdoor education with grass roots support and other school projects.

Ipswich Star: Councillor Lee Reeves had expressed fears over the future of the siteCouncillor Lee Reeves had expressed fears over the future of the site (Image: East Suffolk District Council)

With 16 years experience as an events manager for a large corporation in Ipswich, Amy was inspired by the potential of the former Goslings site, envisioning it as a hub for community activities similar to those in neighbouring areas.

Other ideas include themed food nights, for which she has consulted caterers at Felixstowe's Beach Street food market.

A barn for weddings and events is also part of the site plan.

READ MORE: Goslings Farm Shop near Felixstowe closes permanently

The possibility of a football pitch and an indoor sports centre is also being explored, with involvement from YB Ipswich Academy and Felixstowe School.

A local Felixstowe cafe is already lined up to take over the cafe and farm shop.

She said she aimed to create an "amazing" community attraction after East Suffolk councillor Lee Reeves, who represents Orwell and villages, raised concerns the land could become "another building plot for housing".

But she said: "We have got five housing estates all being built in Felixstowe and we have got one little farm, and what I am saying is let's make this into something incredible."

READ MORE: Felixstowe news

She plans to retain the farming side of the business, including the pumpkin farm and strawberry and raspberry picking and has met with former Goslings staff to determine what needs to be done.

She is currently in discussions to raise investment to buy the land that is currently being dealt with by the estate agents, Bidwells.

She is working with her business partner Paul Norris, who runs an outdoor education and adventure company near Thetford, to secure investment in her plans for the Goslings site, which will be renamed 'The BEE Farm'.