Features
In-depth stories that explore the people, places, and issues that shape Ipswich. From local history and community profiles to investigative pieces and human interest stories that go beyond the headlines.
🔎
Filter by topic
Feature
The essential Facebook troll's guide to Ipswich's 2029 City of Culture bid
The must-read guide for anyone looking to effectively oppose Ipswich's bid to become 2029's City of Culture. Contains essential arguments and pro tips for maximum impact.by
Oliver Rouane-Williams
Feature
'You need to know when to stop': Why The Grazing Sheep closed after eight years
After 40 years in hospitality, Bart Bisbal knew the signs. The Grazing Sheep wasn't failing – but the pressures were mounting, and he understood better than most when a business has reached its limit.by
Matt Stott
Feature
'Everyone told me I was mad': A year in Ipswich retail
Mark Hubert leans against a wardrobe in his immaculately kept shop with the kind of honesty that only appears after a year of doing something much harder than you expected. "If I base my business on footfall," he says, "I would have closed six months ago."byMatt Stott
Feature
How a £5,000 grant keeps Ipswich's oldest shop pedalling
Perched on a stool, Steve Grimwood is engaged in lively conversation with a regular when I step into Ipswich's oldest retail business. I'm instructed to "take good care" of him before the customer disappears through the revamped rear entrance that has recently benefitted from a £10,000 upgrade – the reason for today's visit to Elmy Cycles in St Helens Street.byMatt Stott
Feature
The untouchable parking firm fining an Ipswich pensioner £700 for using her own drive
Every time 66-year-old Denise Downing reverses out of her private parking space behind her Christchurch Street flat in Ipswich, an automatic number plate recognition camera captures her registration. Within days, another Parking Charge Notice drops through her letterbox, demanding £100 for parking at her own home.byOliver Rouane-Williams
Feature
What's on in Ipswich this Christmas: Your guide to festive shows
From traditional pantomimes at the Regent and New Wolsey Theatre to dance adaptations of classic tales and cinema screenings, Ipswich venues are offering entertainment for all ages throughout the festive season.byMatt Stott
Feature
Suffolk firms put big decisions on ice as Budget divides confidence
Five days after Rachel Reeves delivered her £26 billion tax-raising Budget, Suffolk businesses remain divided on whether the Chancellor has provided the certainty they need – with most major investment decisions deferred until 2026 as firms weigh painful clarity against missing reforms.byMatt Stott
Feature
Regent Theatre transformation provides perfect launchpad for town's City of Culture bid
As Ipswich Town chairman Mark Ashton urged the town to "celebrate all the amazing things happening" at Friday's City of Culture launch, the Regent Theatre provided the perfect evidence. The £3.45 million transformation of this 96-year-old landmark proves Ipswich is serious about culture – and ready to show the rest of the UK what it's been missing.byOliver Rouane-Williams
Feature
From Portman Road to precious memories: An Ipswich love story
Charlie and Wendy Clarke's romance began at a football match in 1972 and lasted over 50 years, surviving promotions, cup finals, and ultimately Wendy's terminal illness – with St Elizabeth Hospice ensuring their final months together were filled with dignity, love, and even a visit from Ipswich Town players.byOliver Rouane-Williams
Feature
'Talk this town up' – Football boss's passionate plea for Ipswich City of Culture bid
Ipswich Town FC chairman Mark Ashton doesn't do half measures, and his speech launching Ipswich's City of Culture bid made that crystal clear – the club's leader wants everyone to stop undermining the town and start celebrating what makes it special as it gears up for its 2029 City of Culture bid.byOliver Rouane-Williams
Feature
St George's flag: A symbol of pride or division in Ipswich?
When we asked 185 Ipswich residents how the rise of St George's flags made them feel, three-quarters said it represented national pride. But for others, the responses revealed something more troubling, writes student journalist, Kaelyn D’rozario.Feature
The pub landlord turned therapist challenging beauty industry exploitation
For 15 years, Donna-Marie Wishart ran some of London's toughest pubs and clubs. Then she worked with young offenders and people struggling with addiction. Now she has found her calling in a treatment room in Sproughton, proving that self-care does not have to come with a luxury price tag.byMatt Stott
