Council Maps Future of Ipswich

Local people are to be asked about ideas for new planning policy which will guide the development of Ipswich over the next two decades.

The Borough Council has produced its "Preferred Options" for the Local Development Framework. The consultation will be available on the website and all those who were consulted previously will be contacted.

Not surprisingly, most comments from the public concerned the possible development of the Northern Fringe of Ipswich and the issue of whether or not the town needs an East Bank link road.

In the "Preferred Options" policy, the Council says that there in no need to build on the Northern Fringe to meet the Government's housing targets for the period to 2021 but that some of the Northern Fringe should be shown as a possible area for future development beyond that date.

The Council has also decided not to include plans for an East Bank link road in the policy. It argues that no public money would be forthcoming, that there is no guarantee a new A14 junction would be permitted and that private finance would mean more out of town retail space and this could damage the town centre. However, this does not rule out the long-term potential for a link if the Highways Agency position changes, if funding sources are available and the environmental consequences are considered to be acceptable.

Other major issues included in the "Preferred Options" document are:

1. The Council plans to meet Ministers' housing targets by allocating land for 6,800 new homes for Ipswich by 2021 to ensure the overall target of 15,400 new homes is met;
2. Thirty-five percent of new developments will be affordable homes. Of those, at least 65% will be for rent;
3. The Cranes site in south-east Ipswich becomes a Strategic Employment Site;
4. The creation of a green ring around the outside of the town;
5. All major developments must have at least 10% green space;
6. No more out of town retail parks within the Borough boundary;
7. A Wet Dock crossing is supported and transport links between the railway station, the Waterfront and the town centre will be improved;
8. The Council believes a possible northern by-pass outside the Borough boundary should be properly considered.

Councillor Richard Atkins, Economic Development portfolio-holder, said: "The 'Preferred Options' process is both complex and important. In essence, it maps out the future direction that Ipswich will take. We have tried to meet people’s needs and expectations and have made environmental issues a big priority. We are pleased that there was such a big public response when we were setting out on this project and we ask that local people and businesses will again get involved. This is your town; it is your future."

For further comment:
Councillor Richard Atkins, tel: 01473 817790
Councillor David Ellesmere, Opposition Labour Group Leader, tel: 01473 297806

Further information:
Russell Williams, Head of Service, tel: 01473 432932

 

Documents:

 

 

Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (full version with plans)