CLAY 1A moves a step closer with Towns Fund support

Plans for CLAY 1A, a new creative and visitor attraction on Ipswich’s waterfront, have recently taken an important step forward after securing support from the Towns Fund Town Centre Regeneration programme.

The funding will help bring new life to Waterfront House on Wherry Quay – a historic former grain store – transforming it into a welcoming public space where people of all ages can explore the role of clay in everyday life and take part in hands-on creative experiences.

A new cultural space shaped with the community

CLAY 1A is being developed as an inclusive, family-friendly attraction designed to appeal to local residents as well as visitors to Ipswich. Rooted in the town’s heritage while looking firmly to the future, the project aims to spark curiosity, support learning and wellbeing, and add further energy to Ipswich’s growing cultural offer.

The attraction will explore clay not just as an artistic material, but as something deeply embedded in daily life – from bricks and pipes to cooking vessels, tableware and decorative objects found in homes across the world. Alongside familiar items, visitors will encounter work by well-known British makers, creating conversations between everyday objects and contemporary creative practice.

Spaces throughout the building are intended to be interactive and participatory, encouraging people to look closely, share ideas and, in some areas, work directly with clay themselves. With room for exhibitions, learning activities, making and events – and strong visual and physical connections to the waterfront outside – CLAY 1A is planned as a lively, social and evolving place.

Backed by significant investment

The £2.28 million Towns Fund grant forms part of a wider funding package supporting the project. This includes major philanthropic backing, with a £20 million lead gift from a local benefactor helping to make the transformation of Waterfront House possible.

Together, this investment will fund the careful restoration of the historic building and the creation of a new cultural destination on the Ipswich waterfront.

The restoration and development of CLAY 1A is being delivered by Baylight Properties. Speaking about the progress of the project, Chief Executive Crispin Kelly described the Towns Fund support as a key milestone, highlighting the long-term value the project aims to bring to Ipswich and the importance of close collaboration with Ipswich Borough Council.

Supporting Ipswich’s cultural ambitions

Local and national representatives have welcomed the project as a positive addition to the town. Jack Abbott, MP for Ipswich, has described CLAY 1A as an innovative development that brings together heritage, creativity and community, while also supporting learning opportunities, local jobs and the continued vibrancy of the waterfront.

David Ralph, Chair of the Ipswich Vision Board, noted that the Towns Fund investment marks the next chapter in the building’s long history – from its 19th-century origins as a grain store, through later office use, to its future as a cultural attraction designed to inspire creativity, particularly among young people.

Council leader Cllr Neil MacDonald has also highlighted the wider benefits of the scheme, including increased footfall, new employment opportunities and support for education, alongside the regeneration of a prominent historic building.

Listening to Ipswich communities

Engagement with local people has already played a role in shaping CLAY 1A. A series of community focus groups held in summer 2025 gathered feedback from Ipswich residents, and the project team continues to build relationships with local communities to ensure the attraction reflects and supports the town it serves.

Further updates are expected as plans continue to develop, but CLAY 1A is already emerging as an exciting addition to Ipswich’s waterfront – blending heritage, creativity and participation in a way that feels distinctly rooted in place.

Notes

About the Towns Fund
The Towns Fund was established to support economic growth and regeneration in towns across the UK, with investment focused on areas such as heritage, skills, connectivity and enterprise. Ipswich was awarded £25 million in 2021 to support projects that strengthen the town’s long-term prosperity and cultural life.

Who wrote this about Ipswich?

Miranda Acres

Miranda has been a Freelance Marketing and Design Consultant for more years than she cares to remember. Co-founder of the Ancient House project – breathing life back into one of Ipswich’s most iconic, heritage buildings and supporting small businesses. A passionate member of Ipswich.love. Born, bred and choosing Ipswich.