Market stalls to move across Cornhill to 'boost' Ipswich town centre
Officials say the plan aims to support market growth and public realm improvements
Ipswich Borough Council is proposing changes to the location of market stalls on Cornhill to support market growth and enable public realm enhancements in Lloyds Avenue.
Under the proposal, market stalls would be relocated to the northern side of Cornhill, opposite their current location, with traders facing Westgate Street.
The Council claims that this arrangement would allow delivery vehicles access before 10.30am on market days and create opportunities to increase the number of stalls.
Additionally, it would facilitate redevelopment works in Lloyds Avenue, which are aimed at creating a more attractive and accessible environment with wider footways, new planting, landscaping, and improvements beneath Lloyds Arch.
Ipswich's market has a rich history, first established under a Royal Charter from King Edward II in 1317.
The Council said Ipswich market operates four days a week under the Ipswich Market Act 2004, supporting independent businesses and providing affordable fresh produce and a variety of goods to the community.
Despite the Council's commitment to keeping the market central, relocation options are limited due to fixed features on Cornhill, such as seating, water fountains, and outdoor seating areas for local businesses, according to the Council's statement.
The Council is optimistic that the move will attract new traders while supporting established businesses.
Consultations with traders are ongoing, and initial feedback has been positive, the Council reported.
Hot food vendors at Giles Circus will not be affected by the relocation proposals, according to Ipswich Borough Council.
The Council's Corporate Strategy and Cornhill Strategy outline commitments to revitalise Ipswich town centre, deliver the £25 million Towns Fund programme, and improve the public realm to complement the surrounding retail and leisure offerings.
Earlier this year, a £25,000 budget was approved to replace the current market gazebos, with funding also covering relocation costs.
Councillor Jane Riley, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Customers, said:
“Ipswich Market has been at the heart of our town for more than 700 years and remains one of our greatest assets. These proposals will allow us to continue supporting our valued market traders while enabling important improvements to Lloyds Avenue that will enhance the town centre for residents, businesses and visitors alike."
"The move to the northern side of the Cornhill will provide a better long-term trading environment, create opportunities for growth, and help us attract new traders to join the thriving and diverse market offer that local people know and love. The positive feedback we have received from traders so far is very encouraging, and we look forward to continuing those conversations as the plans progress."