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Former Ipswich gym to be converted into five flats

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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

An Ipswich town centre building that previously housed Gymophobics could become five one-bedroom flats under plans submitted to Ipswich Borough Council.

Why it matters: The proposed conversion would bring the long-vacant commercial property at 38 Princes Street back into residential use in the town centre.

It was most recently home to Gymophobics, but this gym has been closed for a number of years.

The former Gymphobics building on Princes Street in Ipswich
An Ipswich town centre building that previously housed Gymophobics could become five one-bedroom flats under plans submitted to Ipswich Borough CouncilOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

The details: The proposal is to change the use of all three floors of the building to five one-bedroom flats:

  • Two units on the ground floor level

  • Two units on the first floor

  • One flat on the second floor

Six parking spaces are provided within the car parking area at the rear of the building, which can be accessed from Princes Street via an archway.

For context: The premises are sited within the Central Conservation Area but is not a listed building.

The planning application has been submitted by Westmore Developments Ltd through Ben Elvin Planning Consultancy.

The property was previously the site of "Fred Smith & Co" livery and bait stables, with the historic facade still visible on the building.

The bottom line: If approved, the conversion would add to the town centre's residential options while repurposing a building that has stood vacant for several years.

Planning application

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

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Local cancer survivor to abseil Ipswich Hospital this May

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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Ipswich man Joe Alexander will join fellow adrenaline junkies to abseil down the maternity tower at Ipswich Hospital on 3-4 May, raising funds for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity.

Why it matters: The fundraising event will support improvements to patient experience across East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), which runs local hospitals and community services in Ipswich and Colchester.

A brave abseiler at a previous Extreme Abseil event
A brave abseiler at a previous Extreme Abseil eventIpswich & Colchester Hospitals Charity

The details: The adrenaline-fuelled weekend promises breathtaking views and a massive pat on the back for participants who – unlike me – are brave enough to take the plunge.

Who's taking part: Among the courageous abseilers is Joe Alexander from Ipswich, who is conquering his fear of heights for a cause close to his heart.

"I've experienced first-hand the exceptional care and facilities provided by the staff in the Woolverstone Wing at Ipswich Hospital," he said. "The unit is out of this world - you cannot be treated in a better place."

Joe Alexander after his second diagnosis
Joe Alexander after his second diagnosisIpswich & Colchester Hospitals Charity

The background: Joe was diagnosed with a rare form of testicular cancer in 2000 at age 25, and later with lymphoma in 2022. His personal journey has inspired his commitment to supporting local healthcare services.

What they're saying: "We're thrilled to be hosting the Extreme Abseil once again at Ipswich Hospital," said Sandra Gosney, the charity's community fundraising and events manager. "It's a fantastic opportunity for people to challenge themselves while raising funds that make such a difference to health and healing within our community."

Joe Alexander after his recovery
Joe Alexander after his recoveryIpswich & Colchester Hospitals Charity

Worth noting: Barnes Construction is sponsoring this year's event, which the charity described as "crucial" to their fundraising activities.

The bottom line: Those interested in participating or making a donation can visit colchesteripswichcharity.org.uk.

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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