Sudbury in Bloom, a voluntary group renowned for maintaining the town’s vibrant floral displays, is facing a major funding crisis after the unexpected removal of their roundabout sponsorship signs. These signs, which provided over half of the group’s annual income, have been replaced without consultation by Suffolk County Council and their appointed contractor, Marketing Force.

Despite repeated attempts to seek clarification, Sudbury in Bloom has received no response from Suffolk County Council, leaving the group uncertain about their future and how they can continue their vital work.

The signs, sponsored by local businesses, generate a significant portion of the group’s annual income of £6,000. This funding is used to purchase plants and materials for maintaining floral displays throughout Sudbury. Without this crucial support, the group’s ability to continue its work—which is estimated to provide £30,000 worth of value to the town each year—is at serious risk.

Craig, owner of Sudbury McDonald’s, shared his concern:
"We have worked with Sudbury in Bloom for several years now and we know quality when we see it. Sudbury in Bloom has been a huge asset to the town, and we are very concerned about their future. We fully support their request for the signs to be reinstated."

Sam from Howdens added:
"Sudbury in Bloom is top drawer, and we’ve been proud to work with them for many years. The volunteers’ commitment is second to none, and we hope they can be allowed to resume their great work."

Sudbury in Bloom’s volunteers maintain key locations across the town, ensuring its roundabouts, planters, and public spaces are kept in beautiful condition. Their work not only enhances the town’s appearance but also attracts visitors and boosts community pride.

The group has launched a petition on Change.org to call for the reinstatement of their sponsorship signs and a formal apology from Suffolk County Council. They are also seeking a rolling ten-year agreement allowing Sudbury in Bloom exclusive rights to use the roundabouts for sponsorship purposes at a nominal fee, ensuring the town’s floral displays can continue to flourish.

A spokesperson for Sudbury in Bloom commented:
"This lack of communication is deeply disappointing. As a small voluntary group, we rely heavily on sponsorship to fund our work, which has been enjoyed by the Sudbury community for over 20 years. We simply ask to be allowed to continue making Sudbury a town to be proud of."

For more information about Sudbury in Bloom, including the areas they maintain and a list of their valued sponsors, visit their website at www.sudburyinbloom.org.uk.

To support Sudbury in Bloom’s campaign, visit their petition at sudburysurvey.uk.