Council set to approve new £875k creative hub in Ipswich town centre

Why it matters: The project aims to "boost the town centre's vibrancy" while creating jobs and attracting digital talent to Ipswich.

The big picture: A £875,000 grant from the former New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership (NALEP) will fund the development, with £750,000 earmarked for fitting out the space and £125,000 for professional fees to oversee the project.

By the numbers:

• The hub could create between 62-77 full-time jobs

• Space for up to 20 private offices

• Additional 20 hot desks for flexible working

• 10 desks reserved for student use

The details: The council has identified an "experienced tenant" that already runs similar successful hubs across the country to operate the hub on a 10-year lease.

• The space will have super-fast broadband throughout

• Work must be completed by September 2025 under grant conditions

Environmental commitments:

• Only zero carbon and renewable energy will be used

• The operator will publicly report on waste, energy and water usage

• Sustainable materials and repurposed furniture will be used in the fit-out

• The design will incorporate plant life throughout the workspace

The bottom line: The hub represents a significant investment by the council as it aims to establish the town as a regional centre for digital growth and innovation while breathing new life into a vacant part of the landmark Town Hall building.