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Hospice challenges thrill-seekers with bungee jump and abseil

News

St Elizabeth Hospice is offering adrenaline junkies the chance to take on Suffolk's tallest abseil or a bungee jump to raise funds this August.

What's happening: People who enjoy the idea of launching themselves off tall buildings are being given the choice of a 140ft bungee jump or abseil – the tallest in Suffolk.

  • Both events will take place along Ipswich Waterfront

  • Participants will start their descent from a crane near MIX Café + Bar

A man bungee jumping off a building
Hospice supporters will take on exhilarating challenges to raise vital fundsDarran MooreDarran Moore Photography

Why it matters: The fundraiser supports St Elizabeth Hospice's vital services for patients and families living with life-limiting illnesses across East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney.

What they're saying: "Both the bungee jump and the abseil – the tallest in Suffolk – are sure to appeal to thrill-seekers, while also providing stunning views of the Ipswich skyline to take in," said James Fox-Golding, Events and Challenges Manager at St Elizabeth Hospice.

How to participate:

The bottom line: These unique challenges offer locals a chance to push their limits while supporting an important cause in the community.

Where have the boats gone? Ipswich Marina empties ahead of contentious £2m upgrade

News

Dozens of boats are disappearing from their long-term berths at Ipswich Marina as owners scramble to find new moorings within a two-week deadline. The relocations come as Associated British Ports (ABP) prepares to begin a £2m upgrade of the northern side pontoons.

Why it matters: The exodus of 39 vessels marks a significant change for the waterfront landscape, temporarily altering the character of one of Ipswich's most distinctive areas.

The big picture: ABP says the existing pontoons on the northern side have reached the end of their "usable life", necessitating urgent relocations ahead of the winter period. The company plans to create new pontoons in front of Coprolite Street and the main university building.

Port of Ipswich in Ipswich
The exodus of boats makes for strange viewing at the waterfrontOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

By the numbers:

  • 39 boats need to relocate

  • £2m investment approved by ABP's board

  • 2 weeks given for vessels to move

  • 11 years some boat owners have been moored at the marina

What's happening: While some vessels will move to the opposite side of the wet dock, others may leave Ipswich entirely as the marina's established community faces disruption during the redevelopment.

Behind the scenes: The revised plans, submitted in July, followed compromises ABP says it made with boat owners. The company is now awaiting approval from Ipswich Borough Council, with a decision expected by the end of the year.

What they're saying: ABP's divisional port manager Paul Ager describes the £2m investment as a "strong vote of confidence" in the marina's future. The company says it has received "strong support" for upgrading the berthing facilities.

The bottom line: While the marina temporarily loses its familiar flotilla of vessels, ABP maintains the disruption is necessary for essential safety upgrades. The development marks the latest chapter in the ongoing transformation of Ipswich's waterfront.

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