For nearly a decade now Ipswich Waterfront has been the site of intense construction activity, beginning back in 1999 with the completion of 69 luxury apartments at Neptune Quay by developer Bellway Homes. More recently, huge demolition has taken place clearing the way for the various large-scale developments, which are now moving towards completion. More apartments and townhouses have been created and many sold prior to their completion, highlighting the Waterfront's appeal, both from a customer and developer perspective.
But what is so special about Ipswich Waterfront? Once well known as the biggest wet dock in Europe, today the area is the site of the largest single regeneration project in the East of England, with over a billion pounds already spent on or earmarked for this development. The once industrial dock area is now the focus of this huge investment, aiding growth in both jobs and housing.
Every place needs a focal point and Ipswich Waterfront, just a short walk from the town centre, is fast realising its potential. There are a real variety of schemes taking shape, including housing, retail, restaurants, offices and community areas that are turning this once tired industrial area into a vibrant new cultural, residential, business and leisure area, complementing the marina facilities already available. The impressive new developments have been deliberately designed to integrate new buildings with the historic architecture that is being preserved, so retaining much of the Waterfront's special character.
The large-scale regeneration of Ipswich Waterfront has also encouraged increased interest from businesses. On the western bank of the river, Felaw Maltings and the hi-tech IP-City Centre are both now in high demand for their top quality business space, whilst on the Waterfront itself, a top Ipswich law firm recently led the way, relocating its offices to pride of place in Waterfront House.
So what is actually happening right now? At the most western point of the Waterfront, work is well under way on a brand new DanceHouse headquarters for DanceEast (opens in a new window), which is due to open in Autumn 2009. The purpose-built DanceHouse facility will occupy the first three stories of the new building, and will be topped by an impressive 23-storey tower in its southwest corner.
On the adjacent site to the east, work on the Regatta Quay (opens in a new window) development is well advanced. Work has progressed rapidly on this site with several commercial units reaching completion, most recently the Waterfront Bar Bistro and Pizza Express have opened to the public.
Throughout 2007 and 2008 the Grade 1 listed Isaac Lord (opens in a new window) complex on Ipswich Waterfront has continued to unveil its impressive improvements. Work has progressed smoothly and the complex now boasts an improved outside seating area and updated and extended bar and seating area bringing the eastern range of warehouses into use. A new cellar and kitchen has also recently opened and plans are in place for the creation of a new delicatessen/patisserie.
The Salthouse Harbour Hotel (opens in a new window) remains a favourite for Ipswich visitors, offering guests boutique-style 4-star accommodation with striking views across the marina and beyond. The prestigious hotel is currently building a spectacular extension, increasing the number of rooms available and extending the reception, bar and restaurant space.
On the western corner of the Waterfront, in between the now well-established Neptune Quay and Neptune Marina residential developments, the landmark building for University Campus Suffolk (opens in a new window) has now opened for business. The central campus hub in Ipswich is the new public face of the university, offering facilities to engage students, businesses and residents alike. This 'hub' will help define the 'university experience' and the ethos of academic excellence at UCS for many years to come.
Since completion last year, the Persimmon Homes residential development at Orwell Quay has become a well-recognised sight on the Waterfront and last year welcomed the installation of two new features. A large nautical-style tented structure was created directly in front of the Orwell Quay residential development, with a tented roof and a glass-panelled wall providing a full panoramic view of the quayside.
Adjacent to this striking building, a new piece of public artwork depicting the story of the founding of English speaking America in 1607 was unveiled in commemoration of Ipswich's historic connections with Jamestown, Virginia. Commissioned by Ipswich Borough Council, in partnership with Persimmon Homes, the piece by artist Dan Savage is a wall mounted 12-metre long toughened and laminated decorative glass piece. From its location on Orwell quay it is visible from the quayside footpath as well as from boats entering and leaving the wet dock.
With all the construction that is taking place along the Waterfront itself, it is easy to overlook the other changes that are also happening in the near vicinity. In fact, the cultural dynamic on Ipswich Waterfront extends towards the town centre as far as St Peter's Church, the redundant church opposite the Novotel hotel.
Late in 2006 Ipswich Hospital Band heard the long-awaited news that they had been awarded Heritage Lottery Funding to invest in a regeneration project for this neglected building. Together with the support of Ipswich Borough Council and Ipswich Historic Churches they have created an exciting project which was completed in Spring 2008 and is proving a great success. The historic St Peter's church has been transformed into a 200-seat Centre for Music and the Arts which is home to the Ipswich Hospital Band who now use the Centre for rehearsals and concerts. The venue is also available to hire as rehearsal and performance space.
The building is open to the public, with displays relating to the history of the Waterfront as well as the Church itself, on show. Constructors were careful to retain features of the original church, including a superb 12th century Belgian Tournai marble font.
The Ipswich Waterfront picture is changing on a daily basis and there is always something new to see - why not come and explore for yourself?