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

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Former Ipswich gym to be converted into five flats

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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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

An Ipswich town centre building that previously housed Gymophobics could become five one-bedroom flats under plans submitted to Ipswich Borough Council.

Why it matters: The proposed conversion would bring the long-vacant commercial property at 38 Princes Street back into residential use in the town centre.

It was most recently home to Gymophobics, but this gym has been closed for a number of years.

The former Gymphobics building on Princes Street in Ipswich
An Ipswich town centre building that previously housed Gymophobics could become five one-bedroom flats under plans submitted to Ipswich Borough CouncilOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

The details: The proposal is to change the use of all three floors of the building to five one-bedroom flats:

  • Two units on the ground floor level

  • Two units on the first floor

  • One flat on the second floor

Six parking spaces are provided within the car parking area at the rear of the building, which can be accessed from Princes Street via an archway.

For context: The premises are sited within the Central Conservation Area but is not a listed building.

The planning application has been submitted by Westmore Developments Ltd through Ben Elvin Planning Consultancy.

The property was previously the site of "Fred Smith & Co" livery and bait stables, with the historic facade still visible on the building.

The bottom line: If approved, the conversion would add to the town centre's residential options while repurposing a building that has stood vacant for several years.

Planning application

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

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'Cash for jewellery' traders targeting Rushmere St Andrew residents

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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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

Reports have emerged of doorstep traders approaching properties in Rushmere St Andrew, asking residents if they want to sell jewellery items.

Why it matters: Unsolicited doorstep buyers may not offer fair value for items and could potentially be "rogue" traders who disappear with valuables.

Jewellery scam
Reports have emerged of doorstep traders approaching properties in Rushmere St Andrew, asking residents if they want to sell jewellery itemsIpswich.co.uk

The details: Officials are advising residents to follow three key safety steps if considering selling jewellery:

  • Shop around: Start locally by contacting a reputable jeweller to estimate your item's value before soliciting online bids or other offers.

  • Beware 'rogue' buyers: Exercise caution about whom you sell to. If you must leave jewellery with someone for a quote, ensure they're trustworthy and will be available when you return.

  • Read the small print: Check terms and conditions carefully, paying attention to potential hidden charges such as refining fees, postage fees and appraisal fees.

What to do: Report any concerns with traders to Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

The bottom line: Getting multiple valuations from established local jewellers before considering doorstep offers helps ensure residents receive fair value for their items.

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

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