Waterfront development of Ipswich’s Neptune Marina, now Beacon Marina recommended approval despite fears it will 'rip the heart out' of town

Major plans for a £2 million waterfront redevelopment have been recommended for approval despite fears they could 'rip the heart out' of a town.

The plans were initially submitted in July last year by Associated British Ports (ABP) to Ipswich Borough Council (IBC) for the redevelopment of the Beacon Marina, previously the Neptune Marina.

ABP's bid includes the removal of 93 pontoons from the wet dock to be replaced by 15 new ones in front of Coprolite Street and the University of Suffolk’s main building.

On Wednesday, members of IBC's planning committee will be deciding the outcome of the proposals.

Despite the officer's recommendation for approval, however, the plans have received some backlash with a petition aiming to 'save the waterfront' reaching nearly 3,200 signatures.

Planning documents, on the other hand, garnered 24 objections from residents, who cited a range of issues including the potential impact on property value, tourism, trade, noise, and marine life.

One objector said: "Removing the existing pontoons from the waterfront along Wherry and Neptune quay will rip the heart out of Ipswich.

"The waterfront as it is now is a beautiful, unique, feature of the town — on a sunny day, you could be in the Mediterranean."

The environment agency originally objected but later withdrew its initial comments subject to conditions.

ABP's plans, if approved, would include building two welfare buildings for berth holders will be built, one near Neptune Quay and the other on the island opposite, which would include toilets, showers, laundry facilities and other services.

On top of this, a foul water plant to service the southern welfare block and the allocation of a large space for a new museum are also included.

Alongside the objections, the proposals also received two representations in support of the plans.

One supporter speaking on behalf of the Ipswich Beacon Marina New Cut East said: "We fully support this application because we believe the proposal will improve the aesthetics of the town's quayside.

"The current moorings are in need of modification and do not accommodate larger vessels within the marina."

The need for upgraded infrastructure was also highlighted in a planning statement submitted on behalf of ABP.

The statement read: "Ipswich Beacon Marina currently has approximately 150 vacant berths as other facilities in the area have become more attractive due to the quality of facilities available.

"In addition, some of the marine infrastructure is life-expired and requires urgent removal and replacement or its use will have to cease for safety reasons."

According to planning papers, the marine infrastructure could need to be removed within 12 to 18 months regardless of the application's outcome.

Should the green light come soon, ABP said work could begin in early 2025.