Why it matters: The plan aims to position Ipswich to secure government funding for active travel projects and supports the council's carbon neutral goals by encouraging residents to walk, cycle or wheel instead of driving short journeys.
The big picture: The Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) brings together route improvements previously identified in the council's adopted planning documents, including the Local Plan, Cycling Strategy and Town Centre Public Realm Strategy.
By the numbers:
85 route improvements identified across Ipswich
18 responses received during public consultation
Six weeks of consultation between 24 January and 6 March 2025
What's prioritised: The top-scoring routes include:
Nacton Road improvements from Ravenswood to town centre
Foundation Street pedestrian and cycle link between College Street and Star Lane
Gipping River Path enhancements between Sproughton Enterprise Park and the University
Heath Road continuous cycle lanes around the ring road
Major's Corner pedestrian improvements
What residents said: Public consultation responses highlighted concerns about cyclist safety on busy roads, with one respondent noting that top priority routes "are very busy traffic roads and are not wide enough for more cyclists". Others called for better cycling infrastructure along Tuddenham Road and improvements to make walking routes feel safer, particularly around empty buildings that create "anti-social areas which intersect walking routes".
Residents also questioned whether enough priority was being given to cyclists compared to motorists and several respondents suggested additional routes, including better connections for cyclists travelling from East Ipswich and removing cyclists from the waterfront area to reduce conflicts with pedestrians.
What happens next: Suffolk County Council, as the local highway authority, will be responsible for designing and delivering the identified schemes. The borough council will assist with funding bids and may use developer contributions to support delivery.
The context: The plan supports the council's "Proud of Ipswich" strategy, particularly goals for a thriving town centre, carbon neutrality and community wellbeing. It also helps meet National Planning Policy Framework requirements for promoting sustainable transport.
Bottom line: While adoption of the plan doesn't guarantee immediate improvements, it creates the framework needed to access Active Travel England funding and positions Ipswich alongside neighbouring councils with established cycling and walking strategies.
