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Samantha Brook

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Former Gotelee office to become 12 new homes in Ipswich town centre

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A former solicitors' office on Elm Street will be converted into 12 flats after Ipswich Borough Council approved development plans. The project adds to recent residential conversions in the area.

The big picture: The development at 35-37 Elm Street, formerly home to Gotelee Solicitors, will create a mix of one, two and three-bedroom flats across three floors in the town centre.

This is the second set of plans approved for converting offices to residential use on Elm Street, following similar plans approved for 31-41 Elm Street in October.

The former Gotelee office on Elm Street, Ipswich
The former Gotelee office on Elm Street will be converted into 12 flatsOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

By the numbers:

  • Three one-bed flats and one three-bed flat on the ground floor

  • Five one-bedroom flats on the first floor

  • Two one-bed flats and one two-bed flat on the second floor

What's next: Before residents can move in, developers must:

  • Install noise mitigation measures

  • Provide areas for refuse storage

  • Create secure cycle storage facilities

The bottom line: As our town centre continues to evolve, this conversion is another example of the council's desire to shift the balance between commercial and residential properties and 'shrink' the town centre.

Samantha Brook

Get the book!

Most of us spend our lives in the pursuit of Happiness. If you are among the many who are on that journey, then this book is what you need.

Happiness Club by Samantha Brook

Today's supporter

Happiness Club

Drawing from her personal transformation journey, Samantha offers evidence-based coaching and holistic wellness services that address our community's growing mental health challenges.

With mounting pressures from the cost of living crisis and post-pandemic stress affecting many Ipswich residents, Samantha's work focuses on practical tools for building resilience and joy in everyday life.

Through one-to-one coaching, workshops, and workplace wellbeing programs, she helps individuals and organisations develop sustainable happiness practices.

Learn more

Billy McNicholl murder investigation continues as second suspect bailed

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Happiness Club

Proud supporters of free and independent local journalism in Ipswich

Police are continuing their investigation into the death of William McNicholl as a teenage suspect becomes the second person to be released on bail. The 63-year-old was found dead at his Hawthorn Drive home on New Year's Day.

Why it matters: Two suspects have now been released on bail as Suffolk Constabulary's Major Investigation Team continues to investigate Mr McNicholl's death.

The big picture: A post-mortem examination revealed William McNicholl, known as Billy, died from head injuries and a stab wound.

William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog
William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog

Latest developments:

  • The 17-year-old boy arrested on Wednesday has been bailed with conditions until 17 March

  • He was questioned at Martlesham Police Investigation Centre for two days

  • A woman in her 50s, previously arrested on suspicion of murder, remains on bail until 9 April

What's next: Officers continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward with information about the case.

Bottom line: Anyone with information should contact police quoting reference 37/162/25, either through their Major Incident Portal or by calling 101. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers.

Samantha Brook

Get the book!

Most of us spend our lives in the pursuit of Happiness. If you are among the many who are on that journey, then this book is what you need.

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