Why it matters: The regeneration project will create a new destination celebrating Ipswich's maritime heritage at a key historic landmark that serves as a major point of welcome for visitors to the town.
The details: The revamped space will provide a viewing platform for residents and visitors to enjoy the Ipswich Waterfront, featuring new seating, planting, and signage that celebrates the historic waterfront and its important heritage.
The project is being managed by Ipswich Central, thanks to funding from Suffolk County Council's PDP Ipswich Investment Fund, with additional support from local sponsor Packaged Living.
Local companies were selected to deliver the project, including AREA Architects for the overall design of the scheme, and Brooks & Wood for street furniture build and installation.
What they're saying: Lee Walker, CEO of Ipswich Central, said: "We are extremely pleased that our vision to improve Stoke Bridge Wharf and celebrate the town's maritime heritage has been brought to life, thanks to investment from Suffolk County Council with further support from Packaged Living.
"Stoke Bridge is a key location for the town, an important historic landmark and major point of welcome for visitors to Ipswich. Improvements to this area will elevate the existing street scene, bring Ipswich's heritage harbour into the spotlight, and support the regeneration of St Peter's Dock, which are all key to the town's development."
Councillor Paul West, Suffolk County Council, added: "We are pleased to be enabling the transformation of Stoke Bridge viewing platform into Stoke Bridge Wharf with Investment Funding at what is a very exciting time for Ipswich.
"Our driving force with funding allocations has focused on improved wellbeing for residents and to strengthen the local economy. This project will revamp an important historic area in the town into a new destination for visitors to enjoy walking and learning about this vital part of the county town."
Eleanor Fiennes, Director of Operations at Packaged Living, said: "We are delighted to be sponsoring the regeneration works at Stoke Bridge Wharf. This project, alongside Packaged Living's rental living scheme Merchants Yard, located only moments away, will redefine the area and create a vibrant destination that draws people in – bringing the community together."
For context: The site is marked on historic maps as 'Stoke Bridge Wharf', reflecting its important role in Ipswich's maritime heritage.
The bottom line: The project will create a new space for residents and visitors to enjoy Ipswich's waterfront views and learn about the area's heritage, while contributing to broader regeneration efforts.
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