Newly-refurbished historic building 4 College Street in Ipswich to open for Heritage Open Days following refurbishment by Ipswich Borough Council

A historic 16th Century house in Ipswich has been refurbished and will be opened for public viewing this weekend.

The former merchant's house at 4 College Street will be present at Ipswich Heritage Open Days, which allows people to explore historically significant buildings.

The grade II listed building has seen a huge makeover to breathe new life into it, including a limewash and being painted in the traditional Suffolk colours of orange and dark green.

Interior repairs have also been conducted, but a council ensured they do not detract from the original design.

However, it has also seen modernisations, including being made watertight, having improved access, and being made more secure.

The building was renovated by Ipswich Borough Council, who acquired the property in 2016.

Planning permission to renovate the property was granted last August, with work beginning a month later.

It has been vacant since 1981 and the council said it was in a poor state when work began.

Following the open days, the council hopes to lease the building out to businesses for office space.

Councillor David Ellesmere, the leader of Ipswich Borough Council, said it is great to bring the building back to the standard it deserves.

He added: "The refurbishment of 4 College Street really is of excellent quality.

"It is a wonderful location and a very characterful property and will make a great base for a business. I’m looking forward to seeing this historic Ipswich building brought back into use.”

The ground floor features two reception rooms for office space, toilets and a kitchen, while the first floor contains three offices, a toilet and a storeroom.

As a result of the renovations, 4 College Street has been removed from the Ipswich Buildings at Risk Register.

The property will be available to let through Fenn Wright estate agents.