A welcome boost for Ipswich Vision’s ‘Connected Town’ plans with development of 62 new town centre homes.
Site works have begun on 62 new retirement homes in the heart of Ipswich. The new development on Lower Brook Street is being built by UK’s leading developer and manager of retirement communities, McCarthy Stone.
The redevelopment of the former East Anglian Daily Times head office location will consist of 51 apartments and 11 cottages. The development has been warmly welcomed as it aligns the Ipswich Vision's plans for a Connected Town Centre; a progression of an international model known as the ‘15-minute city’. An increase of residential opportunities in the town centre will help connect people with where they live, work, shop and relax - all within a core 15-minute radius.
As well as new housing developments such as Lower Brook Street, it is also hoped that vacant buildings, neglected sites and empty upper floors will be used to create residential living opportunities. However, the ambitious vision for a Connected Town also supports new uses that will encourage people to live and stay locally such as schools, arts venues, medical centres and more green areas that include cycling and walking routes.
Our Chair, Terry Baxter, said: “It’s great news that we have started to increase the opportunity to live in our town centre with this redevelopment. This site has been empty for a number of years and its transformation will be the first of many connected town centre homes. We currently have about 1,000 homes in the town centre but our aim over the next 5-years will be to increase this five-fold."
Neil MacDonald, Ipswich Borough Council Housing Portfolio Holder comments: “Ipswich Borough Council are keen to see high quality and sustainable development of all types and tenures of housing. With an ageing population, this development is a very welcome addition to the town. Ideally situated at the heart of the connected town, it will allow easy access to town and waterfront. I'm sure people will enjoy living here.”
Sophie Last, sales consultant at McCarthy Stone adds: “We are delighted to have been appointed to build 62 new retirement homes in Ipswich. Here at McCarthy Stone we pride ourselves on providing everything the over 60s could want for an enjoyable and independent retirement."
"Our new development on Lower Brook Street is perfectly situated to enable Ipswich retirees to choose their own pace of life and get the most out of their retirement years, thanks to its close proximity to a fantastic choice of retail and a host of cafes and restaurants on the waterfront. We’re looking forward to being part of Ipswich’s exciting vision for a connected town centre.”
