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Council to consider new community engagement strategy

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Ipswich Borough Council's Executive will review recommendations for a new Community Engagement Strategy on Tuesday, 10th September, aiming to improve relations with residents.

The big picture: The proposed strategy is part of the Council's commitment to increasing engagement with locals as part of its 'Proud of Ipswich' Corporate Plan.

It focuses on:

  • Involving residents in shaping local projects and services

  • Offering easy ways for people to have their say

  • Encouraging participation from all communities

  • Providing feedback to residents

  • Using unbiased, effective engagement methods

Between the lines: As part of the Council’s review, a councillor working group was established to improve engagement and involvement, drawing on best practices from other local authorities.

What they're recommending: The proposed strategy recommends various engagement methods:

  • Neighbourhood meetings and workshops on local topics

  • Attendance at community events

  • Open surveys and polls

  • Liaison with community leaders representing diverse groups

  • A Residents' Panel for in-depth engagement on borough-wide issues

Why it matters: If acted upon, the strategy's recommendations will create opportunities for residents to voice their concerns and ensure council leaders hear their views.

What they're saying: Councillor John Cook, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Sport, said: "When Ipswich Borough Council consults with its residents, we genuinely want their input. This Strategy will support councillors and officers to ensure we listen to and value input from residents in shaping the future of our town."

What's next: The Executive will consider the recommendations at its meeting on 10 September at 6pm.

The bottom line: The new strategy aims to create more accessible and meaningful ways for the community to engage with the Council, which is vitally important given the feelings of many in the town.

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

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Mountain bike stolen from outside Anglia Retail Park restaurant

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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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

Police are appealing for witnesses after a blue Boardman mountain bike was stolen from outside Tim Hortons in Ipswich.

The bicycle was taken between 10.20 and 10.30 on Thursday 6 March from outside the restaurant at Anglia Retail Park.

The blue Boardman mountain bike was stolen
Police are appealing for witnesses after a blue Boardman mountain bike was stolen from outside Tim Hortons in IpswichSuffolk Constabulary

Ipswich Police shared the appeal on social media, asking anyone with information to come forward.

Officers have assigned the crime reference number 37/12273/25 to the case.

Anyone who witnessed the theft or has information about the stolen blue Boardman mountain bike is asked to contact police via their online reporting system at https://orlo.uk/2zoxs or by calling 101, quoting the crime reference number.

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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