How former office site is being repurposed for 150 new homes in Ipswich

The first 10 council homes have been completed at Bibb Way, where a mix of office conversion and new builds will provide 150 homes by spring 2025.

Cllr Alisdair Ross and Colin Kreidewolf at Bibb Way
Cllr Alisdair Ross and Colin Kreidewolf at Bibb Way

Why it matters: The redevelopment brings much-needed housing to Ipswich by transforming the prominent former BT site into residential properties.

Cllr Alisdair Ross and Colin Kreidewolf at Bibb Way
Cllr Alisdair Ross and Colin Kreidewolf at Bibb Way (Ipswich Borough Council)

The details: The initial phase consists of four two-bedroom and six three-bedroom houses now available for families to rent.

The complete development will feature:

  • 78 one and two-bedroom flats converted from the former office block
  • 72 newly built homes on land previously used as a car park and data centre
  • Improved green spaces connecting to Alderman Canal and Alderman Road Recreation Ground

What they're saying: "We're pleased to see these homes handed over to the Council and ready for tenants to move into. It's fantastic to see this prominent, former BT site transformed into a new development, providing much needed homes to the local area," said Councillor Alasdair Ross, Portfolio Holder for Housing at Ipswich Borough Council.

"It's fantastic to see improvements to this area, as along with the new, high-quality homes, the green space surrounding the development to Alderman Canal and Alderman Road Recreation Ground has been improved, providing a welcoming environment for residents and the community to enjoy," said Colin Kreidewolf, Chair of Handford Homes.

By the numbers:

  • 10 homes completed in first phase
  • 150 total homes planned
  • Completion expected by late spring 2025

The bottom line: The Bibb Way development will significantly increase the council housing stock in Ipswich while simultaneously revitalising a former commercial site and enhancing surrounding green spaces for community use.

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