Ipswich Borough Council is delighted to announce that work will start on the Town Centre Greening project next week.
The project, which is funded by the Towns Fund, will broaden biodiversity and green areas within the town centre through planting in Princes St, Queen St, St Nicholas St and at Wolsey Square. Each of these areas has a unique character and identity, however through continuity of design language the spaces are linked together to create a green route through the town centre towards the waterfront.
The creation of these small-scale greening projects in the town centre will make best use of the space available creating green opportunities at various heights with native tree species, drought resistant species, perennial planting, mosses and pollinators.
Jack Abbott MP for Ipswich said: "We have started to see real signs of progress over the past 18 months, and this Town Centre Greening project is another welcome development as we work to revive Ipswich and restore pride.
"Investing in greener, healthier streets will help how our town looks and feels, but it will improve wellbeing, support local businesses, and create public spaces where people want to spend time.
"Backed by Government investment, this project will help connect our town centre to the waterfront, support biodiversity, and make everyday journeys through Ipswich more enjoyable. It is exactly the kind of practical, long-term improvement that shows what can be achieved when we work together to build a greater Ipswich."
David Ralph, Chair of the Ipswich Vision Board, said: “Greening the town centre, alongside bringing buildings and attractions back into use, has been one of the strategic priorities of the Towns Fund. These projects will help make the town more attractive to residents, workers and visitors hopefully increasing numbers and the visitor experience.”
Cllr Neil MacDonald, Leader of Ipswich Borough Council added: "The Greener Ipswich project which is funded by the Towns Fund is seeking to add to the attractiveness of the town centre through the additional greening at these key points in the route from the town centre to the waterfront.
“Town centre greening through adding trees and planting areas, delivers environmental, social, health and economic advantages. Introducing habitats that support birds, insects and other wildlife, enhancing ecological value. Providing opportunities to improve wellbeing, physical and mental health through the use of spaces that can increase dwell time and create unplanned social encounters adding to the vibrancy of the town centre and improving the economy for local businesses."