Work is set to start this week (Monday 29 January) on a major scheme to bring the “wow factor” to Ipswich town centre.
Local contractor Brooks & Wood is turning the Ipswich Vision Group’s Cornhill project into reality by transforming the town’s main square. Four iconic arches, a water feature, seating and exciting new paving will turn the Cornhill into a visitor attraction in its own right and help to boost local businesses.
The project is being co-ordinated by Ipswich Borough Council on behalf of the Ipswich Vision Group.
It is being funded by £1.6million from New Anglia LEP’s Growth Deal and by Ipswich Borough Council, Suffolk County Council and Ipswich Central.
Ipswich Vision Group Chair, Terry Hunt, said: “The Cornhill is the biggest and most prominent public open space in Ipswich town centre. As such, it sets the tone for the rest of the town. So it is absolutely vital that the Cornhill has a real ‘wow factor’ for shoppers, visitors, and residents alike. This important project will give Ipswich a town square to be proud of and I am confident this work will act as a catalyst for other improvements in the town centre experience.”
Doug Field, Chairman of New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “The LEP is pleased to be investing in the redevelopment of the Cornhill. It will boost the economic heart of Ipswich, benefiting all who live, work or visit our county town. I look forward to seeing the project take shape over the coming months.”
Meanwhile, the Ipswich town centre market is moving. Stallholders will be located by the side of the Town Hall, just a few metres from their old home, and stretch down to Giles Circus and into Queen Street.
