Empty offices and redundant buildings have contributed to the town’s decline, despite its strong historical connections, accessibility, and potential.
I was one of thousands of people, stuck in stationary traffic for three hours, as the Ipswich’s narrow roads were blocked.
Given the potential for further significant increases, it is surely time to question why Suffolk has so many local authorities.
Planning policies lack credibility. The high street is struggling. Immigration causes increased pressure on housing and public services. At least education has improved.
It is hoped that the extra £10 million boost to resurface some local roads, minor rural roads, and urban cul-de-sacs, will reduce new potholes and emergency repair budgets.
A guided walk from Snape Maltings along the river and back, attracted around 30-40 women of all ages and fitness, from babies in pushchairs up to retirement.
With calls for even more segregated lanes in towns and cities, effectively banning cars, isn’t it time to adopt a Road Fund Tax for cyclists? It could include some form of driving licence.
These projects are vital to the national and local economy but delivering the infrastructure is proving to be disruptive.
The Conservatives need to listen to, and learn from, disillusioned “ordinary” people, if trust and confidence is to be restored.
Criminals are capitalising on demand, leading to a rise in illegal vapes, which can contain high levels of nicotine, contaminants, or banned ingredients such as taurine or caffeine. Some are targeting underage children, enticed by colourful packaging and sweet flavours.
It is also important to ease the shortage of craftsmen, with the knowledge and specialist skills to restore furniture and artworks.
The essence of a new strategy is to remove cars from the town centre, inevitably impacting existing and potential economic growth.
Suffolk has a new Chief Constable, who has only been in post for a couple of months, as has the new Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police. They will be held to account over time, but we need to give them space to do their jobs.
Residents in one block are “trapped behind the shrinkwrap, which restricts light and airflow… it is suffocating, oppressive, gloomy and depressing” affecting their mental health. Leaseholders were asked to contribute £21,000 each.
Many local residents now prefer to shop in other parts of the county, including Bury St. Edmunds and Woodbridge, where they feel safe.