Today brings fantastic news for our town, as Ipswich Borough Council announces the appointment of development partners for the much-anticipated Western Gateway to the Waterfront project. This exciting step forward paves the way for new homes, shops, and leisure opportunities overlooking Ipswich’s beautiful marina, whilst carefully preserving an area rich in archaeological and historical importance.
Sustainable development specialists Drees & Sommer have been appointed as the multi-disciplinary consultants for the project. Working alongside them as the developer is Capital&Centric, a company that has built a stellar reputation across the UK for transforming overlooked historic buildings into thriving, mixed-use neighbourhoods. Their community-focused approach champions independent businesses, culture, and local heritage.
New Life for Historic Landmarks
The vision for the Western Gateway will breathe new life into some of our most recognisable local landmarks. The plans centre around retaining and repurposing the 35-metre-high Paul’s Silo structure and the adjacent former Burton Son and Sanders building. Additionally, the area currently used as the St Peter’s Dock car park will be entirely redeveloped.
The proposed scheme will introduce an exciting mix of new uses, including workspaces, hospitality, leisure venues, and new homes. Designed to bring daytime and evening activity to the waterfront, the project will also feature a vibrant communal green space at its heart—a perfect spot for people to gather, socialise, and enjoy community events.
The area surrounding the development is steeped in history, home to iconic listed landmarks like Wolsey’s Gate and the Grade II* listed St. Peter’s Church. The development will be sympathetic to these incredible historic assets, ensuring that spaces are protected so visitors can continue to enjoy them. This part of the waterfront also lies within an Area of Archaeological Importance, potentially representing the last surviving section of the early Anglo-Saxon and medieval waterfront of Ipswich.
It is brilliant to see this area of town continuing to evolve, especially following the recent opening of the Marinero Lounge in the neighbouring brick warehouse.
Invigorating the Ipswich Waterfront
As many of us know, the Ipswich Waterfront is one of the town’s most iconic destinations. For over 1,500 years, it has been at the heart of our town’s evolution, from early settlers and Viking invasions to global maritime trade.
Today, it is a bustling social hub, home to charming cafes, lively bars, and waterside bistros. It is also an educational and cultural powerhouse, featuring brilliant institutions like DanceEast, the University of Suffolk, Suffolk New College, and The Hold (the Suffolk Archives visitor centre). The new Western Gateway development will only add to this vibrant atmosphere, stimulating the local economy and attracting increased footfall to our beloved marina.
The regeneration project is being funded primarily by Ipswich Borough Council, with an additional £500,000 contribution from Suffolk Public Sector Leaders, utilising pooled business rates from across Suffolk. Councillor Michael Hadwen, Leader of Suffolk County Council, expressed his delight at the funding contribution, noting that it will “complete the regeneration of the western gateway to Ipswich waterfront and serve to facilitate improved visibility of the historic Wolsey’s Gate.”
Further details on the proposals and opportunities for public engagement will be announced as the project progresses. We can’t wait to see the detailed plans take shape and look forward to the bright future ahead for the Western Gateway!
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