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Suffolk County Council to discuss Ipswich-specific knife crime action plan

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A new motion calling for an Ipswich-specific knife crime strategy has been tabled at Suffolk County Council. The proposed strategy has previously faced opposition from borough councillors.

Why it matters: The pilot scheme could become a blueprint for tackling knife crime across Suffolk, building on recent police successes in reducing violent crime.

The big picture: The motion, proposed by Councillor Sam Murray and seconded by Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, comes amid continued efforts to eliminate knife crime across Suffolk through partnership working.

A police cordon at a crime scene
bbing in St Stephen's Lane on 21 September reignited debate over knife crime strategyOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

Recent history:

  • A stabbing in St Stephen's Lane on 21 September reignited debate over knife crime strategy.

  • At a council meeting on 18 September, councillors clashed over whether Ipswich needs its own dedicated strategy.

  • Labour councillors maintain that existing partnerships are sufficient.

  • Conservative councillors argue for an Ipswich-specific approach.

The proposal:

  • The proposal asks the Safer Stronger Communities Board to investigate piloting a knife crime action plan specifically for Ipswich.

  • The council acknowledges that enforcement alone won't solve the issue.

  • If successful, lessons learned from the Ipswich pilot could be applied to other parts of Suffolk.

What they're saying: "It's been a long journey," said Councillor Murray. "I am hopeful with unanimous support from SCC Councillors, enough weight is added to the cause for the Safer Stronger Communities Board to give this request serious consideration."

Councillor John Cook had previously stated that addressing knife crime through existing partnerships was "the best approach" rather than creating a separate strategy.

Next steps: The proposal will be discussed at the next meeting of the Safer Stronger Communities Board, scheduled for March 2025.

The bottom line: While knife crime has decreased across Suffolk, debate continues between those calling for an Ipswich-specific strategy and those who believe existing county-wide measures are sufficient.

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

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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