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Police urged to tackle crime as Waterfront residents unite against anti-social behaviour

NewsLast updated 19 December, 2024

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Oliver Rouane-Williams

19 December, 2024

Ipswich borough councillors have demanded police action over drug dealing and dangerous driving at the Waterfront, as residents launch a new community group to tackle growing concerns about crime in the area.

Why it matters: Ward councillors have reported increasing "serious complaints" over recent months about criminal activity and anti-social behaviour, with damaged security infrastructure not due to be fixed until March.

The big picture: A letter to Suffolk's police commissioner from Holywells ward councillors details multiple concerns:

Drug dealing and sale of alcohol to minors
Dangerous driving and loud music from vehicles using restricted areas
Limited police response to resident complaints
Damaged bollards on Helena Road enabling unauthorised vehicle access

Ipswich Waterfront Residents Group — Ipswich Waterfront Residents group meetingHamish CantHamish Cant

Community response:

New Waterfront Residents' Group formed at meeting on 10 December
Around 40-50 people attended including councillors, residents and student representatives
Monthly meetings planned, starting late January
Website launched to help create "united community"

Key stakeholders involved:

Borough councillors Cathy Frost, George Lankester and Nic El-Safty
Steve Flory, incoming Chair of Ipswich Central, who has already reached out to police
Local MP Jack Abbott aware of concerns
Around 500 students living in the area

What's next:

Police commissioner invited to meet residents in the New Year
Councillors seeking urgent action on bollard repairs, currently delayed until March
Group plans regular meetings at either the university or The Mix

How to get involved: You can visit the group's website and join their Facebook Group.

The bottom line: With mounting concerns over crime and safety, Ipswich Waterfront's new residents' group offers a unified voice for the community while councillors press for urgent action from police and local authorities.

Oliver Rouane-Williams

Mentioned in this article:

Ipswich Waterfront Residents Group

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Ellisons announces sponsorship of Ipswich Sports Club

NewsLast updated 14 April, 2025

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Oliver Rouane-Williams

14 April, 2025

Local law firm Ellisons is backing Ipswich Sports Club to help make sport accessible to all, including schools, disabled individuals and disadvantaged community members.

Why it matters: Without sponsorship support, the Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC) would struggle to maintain its current level of access, facilities and programmes for the local community.

In their words: "The support from Ellisons, alongside our other sponsors, is absolutely invaluable. Without their generosity, we simply wouldn't be able to offer the same level of access, facilities and programmes," said Andy Isles, Chairman of Ipswich Sports Club .

Guy Longhurst, Lorna Denton-Cardew, George Burley, Andy Isles and Simone DowsingEllisons

The bigger picture: Ipswich Sports Club has established itself as a cornerstone of local sport, offering various activities and developing talent from grassroots to professional levels.

The club has produced elite athletes and regularly hosts prestigious international tournaments.

What they're saying: "We're incredibly proud to sponsor a club with such a strong reputation for developing talent and attracting international tournaments," said Guy Longhurst , Managing Partner at Ellisons .

"Sport has a unique ability to unite communities, you only have to look at ITFC at the moment for proof of that, so it's crucial that organisations like Ipswich Sports Club continue to thrive," he added.

Longhurst also noted a personal benefit to the partnership: "I also love a game of Padel and see this as a great excuse to make use of the facilities myself!"

The bottom line: This partnership reflects the latest commitment from Ellisons to support community initiatives with lasting impact, after just last week announcing their partnership with Brighten the Corners, whilst ensuring the sports club can provide an inclusive environment for enthusiasts of all abilities.