Interactive clay attraction on Ipswich Waterfront aims to draw 60,000 visitors annually

Why it matters: The project will create 13 new jobs and aims to strengthen Ipswich's cultural offering while bringing a vacant historic building back into public use.

The big picture: Baylight Properties, the new owners of Waterfront House, have submitted plans to create 'At Home With Clay' in the former grain warehouse on Wherry Quay.

By the numbers:

• 60,000 targeted annual visitors

• 1,220 square metres of exhibition space

• 13 direct new jobs created

The details: Plans show:

• A foyer with workshop space and atrium on the ground and first floors

• Exhibition spaces across five floors

• A dedicated area for hands-on clay activities

• A viewing balcony overlooking the waterfront

What they're saying: Planning documents state visitors will be "taken on an interactive journey to discover clay all around us, in bricks and pipes, cooking pots and crockery."

For context: Built in 1901 as a grain store by R&W Paul Ltd, the seven-storey brick building has previously served as an exhibition space and offices. It sits within the Ipswich Central Conservation Area.

Going deeper: Public consultation showed strong support for the project:

• 98% want more visitor attractions on the waterfront

• 94% agree it's an appropriate new use for the building

• 92% believe it will encourage more visitors to Ipswich

The bottom line: If approved, the attraction would operate six days a week during main season, with reduced opening hours in winter, aiming to become a significant addition to Ipswich's cultural landscape.