What would a £40m Greene King brewery mean for Bury St Edmunds?

Greene King, known for brands like Abbot Ale, Greene King IPA and Old Speckled, said the move represented a “long-term commitment to British brewing”.

“I hope that people do see the intent behind this is very much an investment to protect the long term position in Bury St Edmunds and all the jobs that go with it,” said Matt Starbuck, managing director of brewing and brands at the company.

Public consultations will be held, external and Mr Starbuck anticipated all work would be completed by 2027.

He said Greene King was “committed to retaining our heritage and having an ongoing presence in the centre of Bury St Edmunds”.

The brewer said the new site – just over two miles (3.2km) away from the Westgate Brewery – would cut water usage in the brewing process by more than 50% per pint, alongside improvements in energy efficiency.

“We have been brewing in Bury St Edmunds for over 200 years,” Mr Starbuck said.

“We are passionate about our craft and the development of this state-of-the-art facility will allow us to maintain brewing at the core of our business going forwards.”

It hoped to submit a full planning application in June.