Skip to main contentEnter
Attwells logo

Attwells Solicitors

Proud supporters of free and independent local journalism in Ipswich

Attwells staff outside their Ipswich office

An award-winning local law firm

Rated as "Excellent" on Review Solicitors with an impressive 4.8/5 on Feefo.

Air pollution drops 15% outside Ipswich school after traffic ban

News
Attwells logo

Attwells Solicitors

Proud supporters of free and independent local journalism in Ipswich

A scheme to restrict traffic outside an Ipswich primary school has led to a significant drop in harmful air pollution, alongside other benefits for pupils and local residents.

Why it matters: Poor air quality and traffic congestion around schools have become increasing concerns for parents and educators. This successful trial at Ranelagh Primary School could pave the way for similar schemes across Suffolk.

The big picture: The initiative, known as a 'School Streets' scheme, bans vehicles from Paul's Road during drop-off and pick-up times, except for residents, staff, and emergency services. The restrictions run between 08:15 and 09:00, and 14:45 and 15:30 on school days.

Ranelagh Primary School in Ipswich
A scheme to restrict traffic outside Ranelagh Primary School has led to a significant drop in harmful air pollution, alongside other benefits for pupils and local residentsOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

By the numbers:

  • Harmful particulate matter from exhaust fumes dropped by 10-15%

  • 85% of pupils say the road is now safer

  • 35% increase in walking, cycling or scooting to school

  • 96% of school staff support the scheme

  • 85% of parents want it to continue

What they're saying: "It has made a real difference with families being able to walk to school safely," says Ranelagh Primary head teacher Nicky Ling. "Families now have space to walk on the pavement without the fear of cars mounting the pavements to park or get by."

Between the lines: Before the scheme began in January 2024, the narrow street suffered from heavy congestion, poor air quality, and frequent traffic disputes. School staff regularly reported receiving verbal abuse from drivers during busy periods.

What's next: Suffolk County Council plans to use Ranelagh Primary as a case study for other areas experiencing similar school traffic issues. The road has now been permanently closed to traffic entering from London Road.

The bottom line: The scheme's success demonstrates how targeted traffic restrictions can improve both safety and air quality around schools while encouraging more sustainable travel habits.

Attwells staff outside their Ipswich office

An award-winning local law firm

Rated as "Excellent" on Review Solicitors with an impressive 4.8/5 on Feefo.

Attwells staff outside their Ipswich office

Today's supporter

Attwells Solicitors

An award-winning local law firm. Attwells is rated as "Excellent" on Review Solicitors and holds an impressive 4.8/5 on Feefo.

Speak with us

Multiple unitary authorities 'vital' for Suffolk's diverse communities, councils claim

News
Attwells logo

Attwells Solicitors

Proud supporters of free and independent local journalism in Ipswich

A joint report from Suffolk's councils argues that the county's mix of rural, coastal, industrial, agricultural and urban areas requires more than one council to effectively serve residents.

Why it matters: The five district and borough councils say a single "mega-council" covering a vast geographical area could not focus on the competing needs of three-quarters of a million people as effectively as multiple unitary authorities.

What's driving the news: Suffolk County Council supports creating a single unitary authority covering the entire county, but this has been unanimously rejected by the five district and borough councils it would replace.

The details: Babergh District Council, East Suffolk Council, Ipswich Borough Council, Mid Suffolk District Council, and West Suffolk Council have each approved the report following a series of meetings where councillors examined and shaped the proposals.

In a joint statement, the council leaders said: "Multiple unitary authorities will produce services designed with residents in mind to meet local needs, drive improved outcomes, create value and save money in a sustainable way."

"Our joint proposal demonstrates that a one-size-fits-all mega authority will not solve the existing issue of large countywide services that will continue to drain money, require improvement, and potentially lead to further cost cutting."

By the numbers: The interim report claims multiple unitary authorities will provide:

  • Cost-effective and high-quality services for Suffolk residents

  • Long-term financial sustainability

  • Economic growth and support to local industry

  • Stronger democratic representation and community engagement

  • Governance systems which can adapt to future growth

  • Structures to support thriving communities and economies

The bigger picture: The councils argue their approach would support "a more balanced solution for the governance of the Mayoral Combined Authority" being set up next year for Norfolk and Suffolk.

What they're saying: "This is a generational change to the way local government and services are delivered and something we should seize," the council leaders stated. "It is a real opportunity to think holistically about how services such as leisure, housing and social care could help residents to thrive."

What's next: The interim report does not constitute a final decision. Councils will have further time to develop options to redesign local government, with community views "at the heart of this work."

The bottom line: "Our collective solution is the best way to deliver great services and value for money. It makes sure the 'local' stays in Local Government for Suffolk," the council leaders concluded.

Attwells staff outside their Ipswich office

An award-winning local law firm

Rated as "Excellent" on Review Solicitors with an impressive 4.8/5 on Feefo.

Load next article