A historic Ipswich business is entering an exciting new chapter after moving offices for the first time in more than 70 years.
Chartered surveyor practice Castons has made the switch to a new space in Felaw Maltings as it celebrates both its 130th anniversary and a sustained period of rapid growth.
That period has seen it join the Artelia Group – one of Europe’s largest consultancy firms – as well as take on high-profile projects such as the upcoming £1.5bn new West Suffolk Hospital build, where it acts as the lead consultant and manages more than 100 subcontractors.
Matthew Norman, Director at Castons, said it was important for the business to remain in Ipswich.
He added: “This move marks a historic moment for our business, reflecting both our growth and our vision for the future.
“We are fiercely proud of our Ipswich roots and our continued commitment to our local community over the past 130 years – and look forward to building on that legacy both locally and beyond.
“We leave Grimwade Street with a real sense of pride and optimism as we look ahead to this exciting new chapter.”
Prior to the switch, Castons had been based at 77-79 Grimwade Street for 71 years – establishing itself among the town’s longest-running firms in the construction sector.
The office has served as its base throughout many major building projects in the town, including the construction of the £12m Birketts offices and the £3m Breast Care Centre at Ipswich Hospital.
Its team has more than doubled between 2020 and 2025 to 65 members of staff, while a new-look board was created in 2023 following its transformation from a partnership to a limited company.
The new office will serve as a base for the company to continue on its growth trajectory, enabling it to take on more work nationwide.
Tim Tompkins, Director of Cost Management at the firm, added: “I first joined Castons six years ago as the seeds of our growth journey were really starting to sprout – and it’s been an incredibly exciting time for us all.
“This new chapter will provide us even more opportunities to both grow our business and develop the next generation of surveyors in Suffolk.
“This move is a statement of intent – we’re investing in our people, our profession and our place in the region’s future.”
As well as providing quantity, building and RAAC surveying, Castons provide a range of services including project management, health and safety, and CDM consultancy.
It also carries out extensive charitable work across the county, supporting organisations including St Elizabeth Hospice and the New Wolsey Theatre.
Other exciting upcoming projects for the business include work on the new Kings Lynn Hospital, another build being delivered through the Government’s New Hospital Programme.
More information on Castons and its services can be found at www.castons.com.