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

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Ipswich Central outlines expectations for new MP candidates ahead of general election

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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 Central has announced six key expectations for candidates in the upcoming general election to ensure the town’s continued growth and prosperity.

Representing hundreds of town centre businesses, Ipswich Central advocates for policies that foster economic growth and enhance the town's appeal.

Ipswich Central's key expectations for Ipswich's next MP

Champion Ipswich

Act as a dedicated advocate for Ipswich, promoting its town centre and supporting policies that attract investors, visitors, and residents.

Support funding bids

Secure funding from partner agencies to attract investment, drive economic growth, and support development initiatives in Ipswich.

Lobby for Investment

Advocate for Ipswich at the central government level to secure maximum investment from available funding opportunities, aiding the town's recovery and revival.

Relocate government bodies

Endorse the relocation of government and public sector bodies to Ipswich, boosting local employment and economic activity.

Improve transport links

Work with the Department for Transport to enhance rail and road connectivity, making Ipswich more accessible and attractive for businesses and visitors.

Reform business rates

Support a reformed business rates system that reflects the value of high streets and provides fair opportunities for modern businesses.

Terry Baxter, Chair of Ipswich Central, emphasised the critical nature of these expectations: “It is crucial that the MP for Ipswich following next month’s election commits to unwavering support of the town centre, the beating heart of Ipswich. The vitality of our town centre is essential to the overall success and well-being of our town.”

Ipswich Central urges the community and stakeholders to support these commitments and to hold candidates accountable, ensuring that Ipswich remains a thriving hub for businesses, residents, and visitors.

For more information on Ipswich Central’s priorities and initiatives, visit Ipswich Central.

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

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Has Fabio Wardley's 'dream' Portman Road fight moved one step closer?

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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

The British heavyweight champion and diehard Ipswich Town fan could see his ambition to fight at his beloved club become reality after a new licence application.

Why it matters: Ipswich Town Football Club has applied for a variation of its licence at Portman Road. The application has requested boxing or wrestling entertainment to take place between 12:00 and 22:30 on Sundays to Thursdays, as well as 12:00 to 23:00 on Fridays and Saturdays.

West Stand at Portman Road stadium in Ipswich
West Stand at Portman Road stadium in IpswichHolly Woodard-Williams

What they're saying: Speaking with the BBC, an ITFC spokesperson said: "Following infrastructure improvements to Portman Road over the past couple of years, it will not be uncommon for the stadium to apply for various licences to host events across different sectors; this is just one of many that will start to appear."

For context: British heavyweight champion and Ipswich Town fan Fabio Wardley said it was his "dream" to fight at the ground.

In October 2024, Wardley told BBC Radio Suffolk he wanted to fight at Portman Road, saying: "It's still the dream and it's on the cards".

"If anything it's closer than ever now because being with Frank Warren my promoter, he's done stadium shows before and he knows how to put them on.

"When it happens is still a massive question but pieces are definitely falling into place for this."

Fabio Wardley at Portman Road stadium in Ipswich
Fabio Wardley at Portman Road stadium in IpswichAlamy

The bigger picture: Ipswich Town chief executive, Mark Ashton, said in November 2024 that the club had been in discussion with Wardley about appearing at the ground and that it was in the "pipeline" but not "imminent".

The details: The club has also requested to be permitted to include live music performances, playing of recorded music, dance performances as well as alcohol sales and late night refreshments.

Portman Road underwent a series of improvements last summer to prepare the ground for Premier League football, including new media facilities, more executive boxes and the introduction of safe standing areas at the ground for the first time.

What's next: Posters advertising the change have been put up in the area around the ground with people able to have their say on the change until 24 April.

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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