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£884m Anglian Water upgrade announced for Suffolk and Essex

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Anglian Water has announced an £884 million investment programme for Suffolk and Essex, including £110 million for environmental improvements to local watercourses.

Why it matters: Anglian Water says the investment aims to protect the region from future water shortages and support its growing population.

By the numbers:

  • £884 million total investment for Suffolk and Essex

  • £110 million for environmental improvements

  • £33 million for preventing storm overflow spills

  • £626 average annual customer bill (£1.72 per day)

Picture of an Anglian Water van

The details: The programme includes:

  • Environmental improvements to local watercourses

  • Storm overflow spill prevention

  • Odour containment improvements

  • Upgrades to water recycling centres to accommodate population growth

  • Development of a new water grid connecting Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex

What they're saying: "Our programme of investment for this five years and beyond is transformational," said Don Maher, Anglian Water's Director of Customer and Wholesale Services. "It is critical to support our growing region, keeping customers' taps running and toilets flushing in the face of unprecedented challenges from population growth and climate change."

Support available: Anglian Water is also launching an £80 million support package for vulnerable customers, including:

  • A new discounted tariff for those with medical needs

  • Tailored support packages

  • Benefits assessment service

For help: Customers struggling with bills can contact Anglian Water's Extra Care Team on 0800 169 3630.

The bottom line: The £884 million investment will fund environmental improvements, storm overflow prevention, and upgrades to water recycling centres in Suffolk and Essex. It will also include an £80 million support package for the region's most vulnerable customers.

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Double victory for St Joseph's as young debaters shine

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St Joseph's College students demonstrated exceptional public speaking prowess, claiming victory in both intermediate and senior categories at a prestigious local debate competition.

Why it matters: The double win at the Ipswich East Rotary Club 'Youth Speaks' competition secures both teams places in the Norwich debating chamber finals next month, showcasing local talent on a regional stage.

The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevant
The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevantSt Joseph's College

The details:

  • The college hosted the competition on Wednesday, 29 January 2025.

  • The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human society.

  • The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevant.

What they're saying: "Working with these students and developing their oracy and public speaking skills through debating is such a joy!" said Dr Briege Rice, Stretch and Challenge Coordinator and History and Politics teacher at St Joseph's College.

"These skills are vital in every field, fostering confidence, clear communication and critical thinking. The standard of debating was very high, and we are very proud of this extraordinary achievement of our students," she added.

The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human society
The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human societySt Joseph's College

The bottom line: The competition, supported by the Rotary Club, continues to foster key communication skills amongst young people through its Youth Speaks initiative, with St Joseph's teams now preparing to showcase their talents in February's finals.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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