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Police warn of ATM skimming devices found in Ipswich town centre

News

Police are investigating three separate reports of card-skimming devices found on cash machines in Ipswich town centre over the past month.

Why it matters: Card skimming devices can steal bank card details and PIN numbers, putting residents at risk of fraud and financial theft.

The big picture: Three separate incidents have been reported to Ipswich Police.

  • The devices were primarily found on external cash machines at High Street banks.

  • Police are advising users to check ATMs before inserting their cards.

An ATM at Barclays in Ipswich town centre
An ATM at Barclays in Ipswich town centreOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

What they're saying: "Police advise people using ATMs to look out for anything suspicious attached to the machine and to report immediately to the bank," an Ipswich Police spokesperson said.

How to stay safe:

  • Check for suspicious attachments on card slots, keypads and note dispensers.

  • Report any concerns immediately to the bank.

  • If possible, do not remove suspicious devices, allowing police to recover them for investigation.

Bottom line: While police investigate these incidents, the safest approach is to use ATMs inside bank branches where possible, or to be extra vigilant when using external cash machines in Ipswich town centre.

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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