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£145k project to improve access to Belstead Brook Park

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

A £145,000 project will create new improved access paths connecting Ipswich's Bourne Park to Belstead Brook Park and the wider countryside.

Why it matters: The project will improve connectivity between South Ipswich's green spaces and popular attractions while enhancing safety and environmental protection. The scheme also includes measures to boost biodiversity and reduce anti-social behaviour.

The big picture: The improvements are part of Suffolk County Council's £2 million Ipswich Investment Fund, which is supporting 13 projects across the town.

Belstead Brook Park information board
Information board at the entrance to Belstead Brook Park in IpswichOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

The details: The project includes:

  • New access path from Bourne Park and Stoke Park Drive to Bobbits Lane

  • Installation of timber boardwalks

  • Path levelling and surfacing

  • New fencing and bollards to prevent anti-social behaviour

Environmental benefits: Improvements will include the creation of new ponds, additional scrapes and ditches in Bourne Park Reedbeds Nature Reserve and new information boards about local wildlife and habitats.

Better connections: The improved access will link residents to:

  • Jimmy's Farm

  • Suffolk Food Hall

  • The Shotley Peninsula

  • Alton Water

  • Wider countryside areas

What they’re saying: Cllr Paul West, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for Ipswich, operational highways and flooding, said: "It is fantastic to see the progress already being made with these projects as a result of funding committed by Suffolk County Council. There are now 13 projects underway with some fantastic organisations, all working collaboratively for the benefit of Ipswich residents."

The bottom line: Work will improve access to green spaces while protecting the environment and deterring anti-social behaviour.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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