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Binder marks 60 years of wastewater innovation in Ipswich

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Ipswich-based Binder celebrates its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of growth and innovation in the wastewater industry.

The family-run business, which serves over 20,000 customers across East Anglia, commemorated its journey from concrete products to cutting-edge sewage treatment solutions.

The big picture: Founded in 1964 by Wallace Binder, Binder has grown from a small concrete product manufacturer to a full wastewater service provider, adapting to technological advancements and environmental concerns.

Three generations of Binder directors in front of the Binder office
Three generations of Binder directorsMatt SmithMatt Smith Photography

The anniversary celebration united current and former staff, stakeholders, and local businesses. Wallace Binder, the company's founder, attended alongside his son Richard Binder, who now serves as Director of Servicing, Tankering & Finance.

More reasons to celebrate: Binder's 60th year has been marked by several notable achievements. The company won the best trade stand award at the Hadleigh and Suffolk Shows, and in a royal seal of approval, the Duke of Gloucester visited the company, taking time to meet founder Wallace Binder.

Binder staff celebrating in a marquee
Former and current staff celebrated the company's 60th birthday togetherMatt SmithMatt Smith Photography

Key milestones:

  • 1963: Development of the innovative concrete ring product

  • 1966: Relocation to Claydon, Suffolk, where the company remains today

  • 1988: Construction of the first tanker, expanding service capabilities

Why it matters: The family-run business has been operating for six decades and employs over 90 people in the area. It's easy for stories like this to get lost in what can seem like an endless cycle of bad news, but they must be recognised and celebrated.

Wallace Binder and Richard Binder giving a speech
In his speech, Richard Binder reminisced about his father's innovative ideas, including making coal from the on-site waste and trying to convince everyone they didn't smell.Matt SmithMatt Smith Photography

What they're saying: Wallace Binder described the evening as "a very special event for the Binder family."

By the numbers:

  • 91 current staff members

  • Over 25,000 clients served across Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire and beyond

  • 52 years of service from long-time employee Eric, who helped create the original concrete ring product

  • Around 250 native trees have been gifted to installation customers since 2023 as part of the company's 'Green Initiative'

Between the lines: The company's longevity is underpinned by its commitment to quality and environmental responsibility, evidenced by its ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 accreditations.

Looking ahead: Binder remains focused on innovation and sustainability, with recent investments in high-tech tankers featuring advanced safety features and efficient waste management capabilities.

The bottom line: As Binder enters its seventh decade, it stands tall as a successful family-run business in Ipswich that has adapted to industry changes while maintaining a strong connection to its local roots.

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

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Local migration exhibition competing for global heritage award

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Suffolk Archives' community-led project about migration stories is in the running against attractions from 15 countries for a prestigious museums award.

The "Arrivals: Celebrating Migration to Suffolk" exhibition has been shortlisted for Community Engagement Programme of the Year at the 23rd annual Museums + Heritage Awards.

Why it matters: The nomination recognises Suffolk's approach to documenting and celebrating diverse cultural histories through community collaboration.

Arrivals: Celebrating Migration to Suffolk
Arrivals: Celebrating Migration to SuffolkSuffolk County Council

The details: The free exhibition explored historical and contemporary migration experiences to Suffolk since the end of World War II, including:

  • Oral history recordings

  • Stories of migrant entrepreneurs

  • Archive materials from the Ipswich and Suffolk Council for Racial Equality

  • Narratives about Jewish refugees, Polish soldier Marion Laskowski, and the Windrush generation

  • Examples of traditional clothing from around the world

From the community: The exhibition featured "The Journey" – an art installation consisting of 125 birds made from sustainably sourced plywood, each decorated to represent a unique migration story.

What they're saying: "This nomination reflects the incredible collaboration between Suffolk Archives, local community groups, and artists. It's a wonderful acknowledgment of how migration stories have shaped our county's history and brought together diverse voices in a meaningful way," said Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality.

Anna Preedy, Director of Museums + Heritage Awards, said: "This year's shortlist truly reflects the breadth and depth of the cultural sector and its determination to deliver first-class visitor experiences for all."

By the numbers: The global awards include entrants from across the UK and 14 other countries ranging from Norway and Egypt to Australia.

The competition: 'Arrivals' is competing alongside exhibitions from Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, Manchester Museum, The Landmark Trust, and Historic England.

What's next: The winners will be announced on 15 May.

The bottom line: Suffolk Archives' latest exhibition is "Departures", which explores emigration from Suffolk. It runs at The Hold, on Ipswich's Waterfront, until 31 May, with a programme of tie-in events. Visit www.suffolkarchives.co.uk for more details.

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

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