This proposal will provide improvements to the public realm within Ipswich Town Centre as part of a major scheme due to be completed by late 2012. Two schemes have been identified under this funded project - improvements to Queen Street/Princes Street and improvements to Major's Corner/Upper Orwell Street.

Project Scope

Improvements to scheme one will include alleviating current problems associated with congestion, traffic flow and improving the use of road space for pedestrians, cycles and buses and promoting sustainable transport. The project also includes relocating the Giles statue and delivering new cycle racks, seating, planting, street furniture and broad new raised paving.

Improvements to scheme two will include creating a more integrated and pedestrian friendly public space as well as rationalising bus, car access, pedestrian and cycle movements n this area. Using high quality paving, street furniture and street lighting which reflects improvements made to other parts of the town centre will also give back a sense of belonging to the town centre shopping experience.

Aim of the Project

Aims and objectives of this project include:

• Creates and enhances useable public spaces.
• Improves the overall experience of the town centre.
• Provides an improved environment for pedestrians, cyclists, buses and blue badge parking.
• Reduce the problem of nuisance parking at the end of the buttermarket.
• Rationalises the chaotic conflict of pedestrian and vehicle movement.

• Enhances and protects Ipswich's built and natural heritage assets.

Outcome of the Project

It is intended that these works will:

• Bring social and economic benefits as well as environmental enhancements.
• Meet aims under transforming Ipswich in relation to effective urban design.
• Enhance conservation areas and the setting of listed buildings.
• Create opportunities for the location of public art.
• Meet transport objectives.
• Stimulate economic development.

Status

Funding for 2009/10 £400,000

IDP Package: IP-One

Status as at 31 December 2009:

King Street

• Main design, CDM and TMA procedures complete and started on site.
• New Yorkstone footways and silver grey conservation kerbs provided in Lion Street.
• Work underway in King Street to replace asphalt carriageways.

Giles Circus

• Detailed surveys undertaken.
• Preliminary design complete.
• Full public consultation completed.
• Order placed for materals with supplier.
• Main design nearly complete.
• Detailed implementation plan including phased road closures produced.

 Status as at 31 March 2010:

• Construction of new carriageway and footways 40% complete.
• All materials ordered.
• Preliminary designs for Majors Corner and Upper Orwell Street not done due to projected budgetary constraints.
• Work completed to King Street.
• Construction work in progress at Giles Circus although delayed slightly by bad weather.

 Status as at 30 September 2010:

• Completion of works at Cornhill/Buttermarket includes carriageway, footway and amenity works.
• Giles Statue relocated.
• New hard and soft landscaped spaces including trees constructed.
• Street furniture and cycle parking provision installed.

Project complete.