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Ipswich Central outlines expectations for new MP candidates ahead of general election

News

Ipswich Central has announced six key expectations for candidates in the upcoming general election to ensure the town’s continued growth and prosperity.

Representing hundreds of town centre businesses, Ipswich Central advocates for policies that foster economic growth and enhance the town's appeal.

Ipswich Central's key expectations for Ipswich's next MP

Champion Ipswich

Act as a dedicated advocate for Ipswich, promoting its town centre and supporting policies that attract investors, visitors, and residents.

Support funding bids

Secure funding from partner agencies to attract investment, drive economic growth, and support development initiatives in Ipswich.

Lobby for Investment

Advocate for Ipswich at the central government level to secure maximum investment from available funding opportunities, aiding the town's recovery and revival.

Relocate government bodies

Endorse the relocation of government and public sector bodies to Ipswich, boosting local employment and economic activity.

Improve transport links

Work with the Department for Transport to enhance rail and road connectivity, making Ipswich more accessible and attractive for businesses and visitors.

Reform business rates

Support a reformed business rates system that reflects the value of high streets and provides fair opportunities for modern businesses.

Terry Baxter, Chair of Ipswich Central, emphasised the critical nature of these expectations: “It is crucial that the MP for Ipswich following next month’s election commits to unwavering support of the town centre, the beating heart of Ipswich. The vitality of our town centre is essential to the overall success and well-being of our town.”

Ipswich Central urges the community and stakeholders to support these commitments and to hold candidates accountable, ensuring that Ipswich remains a thriving hub for businesses, residents, and visitors.

For more information on Ipswich Central’s priorities and initiatives, visit Ipswich Central.

Former Ipswich Town striker charged in £600k cannabis smuggling case

News

Former Ipswich Town striker Jay Emmanuel-Thomas has been charged with attempting to smuggle £600,000 worth of cannabis through a UK airport.

The big picture: The 33-year-old, who spent two seasons at Portman Road from 2011 to 2013, was arrested by National Crime Agency officers in Scotland following the seizure of approximately 60kg of the drug at Stansted airport.

Jay Emmanuel Thomas playing for Ipswich Town
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas playing for TownAlamy

Key details:

  • Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, 33, was arrested Wednesday in Gourock, Inverclyde.

  • He's accused of attempting to smuggle £600,000 worth of cannabis through Stansted airport.

  • Border Force officers found approximately 60kg of the drug in two suitcases from Bangkok.

  • Emmanuel-Thomas is set to appear at Carlisle magistrates court Thursday, charged with importing class B drugs.

60kg of cannabis
60kg of cannabis was seizedNCA

JET's Ipswich career: The journeyman joined Ipswich in 2011 for £1.1m from Arsenal, scoring nine goals in 75 appearances for the Tractor Boys. He left Ipswich in 2013 in a swap deal with Bristol City. He most recently played with Greenock Morton in the Scottish Championship.

The bottom line: The NCA warns that cannabis smuggling into the UK carries a maximum 14-year prison sentence, contradicting misinformation some couriers receive about facing only fines.

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