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Ipswich Wanderers appoint Joe Garnham as co-chairman

News

Joe Garnham has been named co-chairman of Ipswich Wanderers Football Club, joining Stephen Boyle in the leadership role.

The big picture: Joe Garnham's appointment strengthens the club's leadership and builds on an existing partnership between Garnham's company, GBS, and Ipswich Wanderers, as the club aims to develop further and capitalise on its potential for growth.

Joe Garnham and Stephen Boyle, co-chairmen of Ipswich Wanderers FC
Joe Garnham and Stephen Boyle, co-chairmen of Ipswich Wanderers FCIWFC

What they're saying: Stephen Boyle, co-chairman of Ipswich Wanderers, said:

"I'm absolutely delighted that Joe has accepted my invitation to join me as 'Co-Chairman' of Ipswich Wanderers. Joe and his team at GBS have become invaluable partners over the past few years, helping with the clubhouse works, last season's crucial ground grading and much more."

Joe Garnham commented:

"I am delighted to accept the role at IWFC and be part of this incredible club. I look forward to working alongside Stephen, Rick and all the behind the scenes volunteers. Together, we will strive to unlock the club's full potential and build a bright future ahead!"

The bottom line: Boyle emphasized that he and Garnham are "100% behind the brilliant management team of Glen and Alex," indicating a unified vision for the club's future.

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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