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MPs & Councillors
Everything you need to know about the people elected to govern our region.
Council responds to public criticism with 'bright future' plan for Suffolk's libraries
As public opposition grows to its library takeover plans, Suffolk County Council has outlined how it intends to enhance and modernise services if the decision is approved on March 18.
Opposition councillors demand 'urgent talks' in Suffolk library dispute
Councillors have called on Suffolk County Council to reopen negotiations with Suffolk Libraries. A petition against the proposed takeover has passed 18,000 signatures as the council prepares to publish its cabinet paper today.
Ipswich Borough Council and opposition leaders reject Suffolk County Council's single authority plan
Suffolk Green, Liberal Democrat and Independent Group and Ipswich Borough Council leaders have publicly rejected Suffolk County Council's proposal for a single unitary authority, calling for more localised governance instead.Suffolk County Council propose single council for all of Suffolk
Suffolk County Council will submit plans for one unitary authority to replace the current six councils, arguing it would make services "simpler, cheaper and quicker."
Kesgrave Council chair's isolationist stance ignores devolution reality
While three main political parties in Ipswich have united behind plans for a Greater Ipswich unitary council, the chair of Kesgrave Town Council maintains his 15,000-resident town should remain independent – a position that appears increasingly detached from economic reality.Suffolk County Council creates new cabinet to lead devolution transition
Suffolk County Council has appointed Cllr Richard Rout to lead the county's devolution plans and local government reforms, in what will be the biggest change to local governance in 50 years.
Four Mid Suffolk councillors quit Tories over Labour's devolution plans
Four Conservative councillors have formed a new Mid Suffolk Independents group in protest at Labour's devolution plans that could see local councils abolished.
Why 2025's Holocaust Memorial Day carries extra weight
With Holocaust survivors becoming older and frailer, this year's 80th anniversary of the liberation of Nazi concentration camps could be the last major commemoration where survivors can share their firsthand accounts. Local MP Jack Abbott has joined nationwide efforts to ensure their stories are preserved.
Ipswich MP demands 'no more excuses' over potholes but council yet to receive details from Department for Transport
Ipswich MP Jack Abbott and Suffolk County Council have offered contrasting views on new road repair funding announced by the government. While Abbott welcomes a "huge funding uplift", the council emphasises the need to understand allocation details before making commitments.
Culture secretary hails Ipswich as model for UK grassroots music scene
The Culture Secretary has praised Ipswich's music ecosystem as a potential blueprint for towns across the UK. Lisa Nandy told MPs the success of homegrown talent like Ed Sheeran shows how local venues can nurture future stars.
Jack Abbott: MP for Ipswich or the East of England?
In recent months, Jack Abbott has taken on a dual role that deserves closer scrutiny. While elected to represent Ipswich, he's now also serving as Mission Champion for the East of England – but what does this actually mean, and should we be concerned?
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Brighten the Corners
Brighten the Corners runs a diverse live music programme, training and education opportunities across three venues, and an annual multi-venue festival in Ipswich, Suffolk.