Ipswich Taco Bell in Anglia Retail Park – what’s going on?

Work on Ipswich’s first Taco Bell appears to have stalled and its opening delayed – so what’s going on?

Plans to build the Mexican-inspired takeaway at the site of the former Carphone Warehouse in Anglia Retail Park were approved by Ipswich Borough Council in August 2022.

Work to convert the inside began in February, and plans to be able to open the site before the completion of EV charging ports were given the green light in June, which meant it could open earlier than planned.

Taco Bell said it was originally expected that the drive-through would open by the summer – and it has missed this window.

But don’t fret, we could still see the eatery before the end of the year.

The fast food chain was working alongside Ipswich Borough Assets, owned by the council, to manage construction.

But, it’s October now, so have there been any updates?

The American fast-food giant began listing jobs for the eatery in August, with roles for a full-time shift leader and full-time team member being advertised.

The firm is still looking for a full-time shift leader and restaurant general manager.

SuffolkNews approached Taco Bell for an update on the opening and how work was progressing.

A spokesman for the firm said: “Unfortunately, we don’t have anything we can share just now, but we are opening lots of new restaurants so hopefully there will be something new soon.

“In the meantime, you can keep up to date by following @TacoBellUK on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.”

Signage has yet to appear on the takeaway, although advertising plans at the eatery were approved last year.

Since the Ipswich drive-through was given the green light, Suffolk gained its first Taco Bell in Lowestoft, which moved into the former McDonalds in London Road.

In addition, plans to build one in Haverhill were approved in February.

Unfortunately, an opening date for the Ipswich drive-through has yet to be confirmed.

A spokesman for Ipswich Borough Assets said: “Ipswich Borough Assets is continuing its communications with Taco Bell regarding the opening of the new restaurant.

“Taco Bell has changed their kitchen fitters, which resulted in a short delay. However, it is expected that the new restaurant will open before the end of the year.”