Ed Sheeran plans to fund new youth centre in Suffolk town where he was raised
Ed Sheeran plans to fund a new youth centre in the town where he was raised, filling the gap after an existing one closes.
The singer-songwriter plans to finance the construction of the new centre in Framlingham, Suffolk, through his charity called the Framlingham Foundation Trust.
He would also fund the centre, set to be called Fram Fam, through a charity – also called Fram Fam – that would be funded by him.
The charity would be run by local people who have been immersed in community work for a while, who Sheeran went to school with, a source said.
A planning application for the centre says that the new facility would “replace and significantly enhance” an existing youth club which was said to be likely to close this easter.
“The new building will be a multi-functional facility for children aged 0-18 years, for a variety of recreational activities,” plans lodged with East Suffolk Council state.
“Without the introduction of this centre there would be no long-term child and youth provision being offered within Framlingham.”
Sheeran, 35, has become known in recent years for his charity work including donating to his former school Thomas Mills High School and Sixth Form in Framlingham.
A source said that Framlingham’s existing youth centre is due to close next month after operating for 20 years.
The new youth centre would offer a multi-purpose space consisting of an art studio, rehearsal spaces, library, cookery room, garden and more.
Plans also includes a separate gym on the site that would be open to the general public.
The centre would place a big emphasis on the arts, which Sheeran is passionate about, a source said.
The planning application, for land owned by Framlingham Sports Club, is awaiting a decision on permission.
In a design and access statement, the application states that the proposals “have huge community benefits, particularly in addressing the local need for youth facilities and full funding is in place for the proposed works”.
“Subject to a positive determination therefore, works could commence on site in spring/summer 2026,” it said.
Published: by Radio NewsHub