Ipswich Borough Council is proposing to make changes to where the market operates from on the Cornhill, as part of plans to support the continued growth of the market and to enable the next phase of public realm improvements in Lloyds Avenue.
Under the proposal, market stalls would move to the northern side of the Cornhill, opposite their current location, with traders facing onto Westgate Street. The new arrangement would provide sufficient space for delivery vehicles to access the area before 10.30am on market days and would also create opportunities to increase the number of stalls in the future.
This would also allow the Lloyds Avenue public realm redevelopment works to proceed, a scheme which will deliver wider footways, new planting and landscaping, and improvements beneath Lloyds Arch, creating a more attractive and accessible environment in the heart of the town centre.
Ipswich was first granted the right to hold a market under a Royal Charter from King Edward II in 1317 and, more than 700 years later, the market continues to play a vital role in the town centre economy and community life. Operating four days a week under the provisions of the Ipswich Market Act 2004, the market supports independent businesses, local employment and new business start-ups, while also providing residents with access to affordable fresh produce and a wide range of goods.
The Council is committed to ensuring the market remains at the centre of town where visitor footfall is highest. However, options for relocation within the designated market area are limited due to fixed features on the Cornhill, including seating, water fountains, the portal and binoculars, as well as the need to preserve outdoor seating areas for surrounding businesses and maintain the Cornhill's role as an events space.
The Council hopes the relocation will help attract new traders while supporting the many established businesses that are already a well-loved part of Ipswich Market. Consultation with traders is ongoing, with initial feedback reported to be overwhelmingly positive. A date for the move has not yet been finalised, but the Council intends to progress the relocation as soon as possible following completion of the consultation process.
Hot food vendors based at Giles Circus will not be affected by the proposals and will remain in their current location.
The proposal supports key commitments within the Council's Corporate Strategy and Cornhill Strategy, including revitalising the town centre, delivering the £25 million Towns Fund programme, improving the public realm, and creating a market environment that complements the surrounding retail and leisure offer.
Earlier this year, the Council approved a £25,000 budget to replace the current market gazebos. The funding will also cover any ancillary costs associated with the relocation. Following consideration of a range of design options, a traditional blue and white colour scheme is expected to be adopted, reflecting colours strongly associated with Ipswich.
Councillor Jane Riley, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Customers, said:
“Ipswich Market has been at the heart of our town for more than 700 years and remains one of our greatest assets. These proposals will allow us to continue supporting our valued market traders while enabling important improvements to Lloyds Avenue that will enhance the town centre for residents, businesses and visitors alike."
"The move to the northern side of the Cornhill will provide a better long-term trading environment, create opportunities for growth, and help us attract new traders to join the thriving and diverse market offer that local people know and love. The positive feedback we have received from traders so far is very encouraging, and we look forward to continuing those conversations as the plans progress.”
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