Ipswich Borough Council (IBC) has unveiled its plans for a new aquatics centre and its masterplan for the Portman Road area.
The scheme, which was initially announced in July 2022 and has been drawn up in collaboration with Suffolk County Council and Ipswich Town, would see a new aquatics centre - featuring pools, water flumes, a gym and fitness studios, as well as a soft play area and cafe - a hotel and park areas built on the car park behind the Cobbold Stand.
In addition, a multi-storey car park would also be constructed in order to replace the spaces lost due to the new development.
It’s also proposed that Portman Road is rerouted into a curve to facilitate the club’s redevelopment of the Cobbold Stand, which is currently being worked on but is a longer-term rather than immediate priority.
IBC’s Executive will consider the masterplan next week, while the proposals will soon be submitted for planning approval.
"This project is set to become a community jewel, a beacon of how sports, leisure, and communal well-being are valued in Ipswich,” Councillor Neil MacDonald, leader of IBC, said.
"Together, we are not just building facilities; we are building hope, opportunity, and a legacy of communal well-being. As we move forward, the focus shifts to attracting forward-thinking investors who share our vision for a healthier, more vibrant Ipswich.
"This is a journey towards not only revitalising our town but also championing the spirit of our community.
"The council is dedicated to making this vision a reality, ensuring that the benefits of this ambitious project will be enjoyed by both current and future generations of Ipswich residents.”
Town CEO Mark Ashton added: "A significant amount of work has been undertaken at the Portman Road grounds over the last three years, with visible improvements to our home during that time, and we are proud to have an average attendance of nearly 29,000 this season.
"The redevelopment of the Cobbold Stand and an increase in capacity has been part of our long-term masterplan for the stadium and, while it must be stressed no work is imminent, we are pleased to have been able to work with Ipswich Borough Council to identify the required land to make this possible.”
Planning consultants Ingleton Wood give an overview of the project and an interactive public consultation platform on their website.