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

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Upper Orwell Street North car park to close from next week

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Oliver Rouane-Williams

The car park will be closed from 30 September to make way for the construction of the new Central Ipswich Free School.

Why it matters: The closure will result in 52 fewer parking spaces in the town centre but will allow the demolition of the former Co-op department store on Carr Street and the construction of a new primary school to begin in October.

Car park behind the Co-op building
The car park is located immediately behind the old Co-op buildingOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

The big picture:

  • The Department for Education has requested that the entire car park be used as a contractor's compound and safety area for the demolition.

  • Ipswich Borough Council will lease the site to the DfE for an initial 2-year term from 1 October 2024.

  • The council says rental income will compensate for lost parking revenue.

Coop ‘Harvest’ Mosaic by Gyula Bajó & Endre Hevezi in 1963-64
Plans were delayed due to concerns about preserving a historical mural but new plans approved in May 2024 will allow the mural to remain in placeOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

The bottom line: Construction is set to begin in October. While the car park closure may inconvenience some and reduce town centre parking, it paves the way for a much-needed new school in central Ipswich.

Portrait photo of Oliver Rouane-Williams
Oliver Rouane-Williams
Mentioned in this article:
Ipswich Borough Council
Central Ipswich Free School
Posted in:
Town Centre
Primary Education
Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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'Cash for jewellery' traders targeting Rushmere St Andrew residents

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Portrait photo of Oliver Rouane-Williams
Oliver Rouane-Williams

Reports have emerged of doorstep traders approaching properties in Rushmere St Andrew, asking residents if they want to sell jewellery items.

Why it matters: Unsolicited doorstep buyers may not offer fair value for items and could potentially be "rogue" traders who disappear with valuables.

Jewellery scam
Reports have emerged of doorstep traders approaching properties in Rushmere St Andrew, asking residents if they want to sell jewellery itemsIpswich.co.uk

The details: Officials are advising residents to follow three key safety steps if considering selling jewellery:

  • Shop around: Start locally by contacting a reputable jeweller to estimate your item's value before soliciting online bids or other offers.

  • Beware 'rogue' buyers: Exercise caution about whom you sell to. If you must leave jewellery with someone for a quote, ensure they're trustworthy and will be available when you return.

  • Read the small print: Check terms and conditions carefully, paying attention to potential hidden charges such as refining fees, postage fees and appraisal fees.

What to do: Report any concerns with traders to Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

The bottom line: Getting multiple valuations from established local jewellers before considering doorstep offers helps ensure residents receive fair value for their items.

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

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