Ipswich Society welcome Neptune Marina pontoon reduction

In July, Associated British Ports (ABP) submitted plans to Ipswich Borough Council to shake up the look of Neptune Marina, which would see the current 93 pontoons reduced to 15. 

The whole project is set to cost £ 2 million and has seen 24 presentations made to the council by residents arguing the plans would damage the historic waterfront and reduce the number of boats. 

ABP plans for a £2m investment into the quay. (Image: Newsquest) However, the Ipswich Society, who look to protect the historic parts of the town, said that their panel welcomed these plans as it would allow for a range of activities to take place in the waterfront. 

The society said: "The Panel welcomed the dramatic reduction in the number of marina pontoons, which will open up the Wet Dock for a range of maritime uses.

"This is a view with which we agreed."

However, they do object to the foul water treatment plant and two welfare buildings on either side of the marina, with toilets and showers for the users, that ABP plans to add.

"Our view was that the welfare buildings look bleak and utilitarian," the society wrote.

"We were particularly concerned about the building near Neptune Quay and the car parking for berth users on the dockside.

"This area, in particular, is in a visual sight line and in an important location that can be viewed from a variety of locations.

"As such, more thought should be given to the design of the building and how it fits in with the wider area."

The environmental agency has also previously submitted objections to the welfare building. (Image: Shikhar Talwar) These buildings have also been objected to by the Environment Agency, who have said that they pose a "danger" of flooding in the area. 

ABP had previously said that they are working to address these concerns.