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£145k project to improve access to Belstead Brook Park

A £145,000 project will create new improved access paths connecting Ipswich's Bourne Park to Belstead Brook Park and the wider countryside.

Why it matters: The project will improve connectivity between South Ipswich's green spaces and popular attractions while enhancing safety and environmental protection. The scheme also includes measures to boost biodiversity and reduce anti-social behaviour.

The big picture: The improvements are part of Suffolk County Council's £2 million Ipswich Investment Fund, which is supporting 13 projects across the town.

Belstead Brook Park information board
Information board at the entrance to Belstead Brook Park in Ipswich(Oliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk)

The details: The project includes:

  • New access path from Bourne Park and Stoke Park Drive to Bobbits Lane

  • Installation of timber boardwalks

  • Path levelling and surfacing

  • New fencing and bollards to prevent anti-social behaviour

Environmental benefits: Improvements will include the creation of new ponds, additional scrapes and ditches in Bourne Park Reedbeds Nature Reserve and new information boards about local wildlife and habitats.

Better connections: The improved access will link residents to:

  • Jimmy's Farm

  • Suffolk Food Hall

  • The Shotley Peninsula

  • Alton Water

  • Wider countryside areas

What they’re saying: Cllr Paul West, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for Ipswich, operational highways and flooding, said: "It is fantastic to see the progress already being made with these projects as a result of funding committed by Suffolk County Council. There are now 13 projects underway with some fantastic organisations, all working collaboratively for the benefit of Ipswich residents."

The bottom line: Work will improve access to green spaces while protecting the environment and deterring anti-social behaviour.

You can read it for free thanks to the generous support of Gipping Construction and Ipswich School

Despite a lack of promotion, the big reveal drew a good crowd of passersby

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