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Two charged with multiple thefts across Ipswich

News

Police have arrested and charged a man and woman in connection with a series of thefts from stores in Ipswich over a five-day period.

Why it matters: The arrests highlight ongoing efforts by police to tackle theft in the town centre, which can impact both businesses and shoppers.

Craig Horsnell and Saphron Boyton
The accused Craig Horsnell and Saphron Boyton

The details:

  • Craig Horsnell, 35, of Wells Close, Ipswich, was charged with seven counts of theft.

  • Saphron Boyton, 28, also of Wells Close, Ipswich, was charged with five counts of theft.

  • The thefts reportedly took place between 10 and 15 October.

What's next: Both suspects were remanded to appear before Ipswich Magistrates Court today (Thursday 17 October).

The bottom line: Suffolk Police say they will continue to investigate thefts in the area. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to police.

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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