Skip to main contentEnter
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

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

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

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

Council to consult on new housing and homelessness strategy

News
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

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

Ipswich Borough Council will consider adopting a new 5-year housing strategy next week, with plans to launch a public consultation if approved.

The big picture: The Housing Strategy and Homelessness & Rough Sleeping Strategy 2025-2030 aims to improve housing services in Ipswich, with five key priorities:

  • Providing high-quality advice

  • Focusing on early prevention

  • Working to end rough sleeping

  • Facilitating access to suitable accommodation

  • Building partnerships to support residents

Man sleeping rough
A man sleeps roughDominika ZarzyckaGetty

Why it matters: The strategy will shape the council's approach to housing and homelessness over the next five years, impacting thousands of Ipswich residents.

Key details:

  • The Executive will vote on the strategy at its meeting on 10 September

  • If approved, a public consultation will run from 10 September to 8 October

  • Residents will be invited to complete an online survey

What they're saying: Councillor Alasdair Ross, Portfolio Holder for Housing, called the consultation "a crucial opportunity for us to hear directly from the people of Ipswich."

"It is vital that we understand the views and concerns of our community as we work towards ensuring safe, affordable, and quality housing for all," Ross said.

The bottom line: The council says public input will be "invaluable" in helping enhance housing standards, support vulnerable people, and build a "stronger, more resilient Ipswich."

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

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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

Ipswich's only free and independent news publication

Support our journalism

We can't do this without you! Unlike the Ipswich Star and East Anglian Daily Times, Ipswich.co.uk has no banner advertising and no wealthy US corporate owners.

So, if you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for a better Ipswich, please consider contributing just £24 per year.

Every penny matters and allows us to keep producing good quality local journalism that respects your time, attention and privacy.

Become a supporter

Man charged after St Helen's Street assault leaves victim in hospital

News
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

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

An argument in Ipswich town centre escalated into an assault that left one man in hospital on Tuesday. Police are now seeking dashcam footage as they build their case.

Why it matters: The incident occurred in a busy area of Ipswich's town centre, with police now seeking public assistance to gather additional evidence as they build their case.

The details: Keith McKenzie, 48, of Bond Street, has been charged with assault causing grievous bodily harm.

  • The assault took place at approximately 21:45 on Tuesday near the junction of St Helen's Street and Bond Street

  • A man in his 30s sustained arm injuries following an argument with an unknown assailant

  • The victim walked to Tavern Street to seek help before being taken to hospital

  • He has since been discharged

What's next: McKenzie appeared at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Thursday, 6 February and was remanded in custody. He is due to appear at Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday, 6 March.

How to help: Detectives want to hear from anyone who was driving in the area between 21:35 and 21:50 on Tuesday with dashcam footage that might have captured the altercation.

The bottom line: Anyone with information should contact South CID at Suffolk Police, quoting reference 37/6562/25, via:

  • Website: suffolk.police.uk/tell-us

  • Phone: 101

  • Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 (anonymously)

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

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

Load next article