Ipswich Leader Eyes Arras Square Upgrade After Plan Revisions

At a meeting, Inga Lockington asked about Arras Square. Neil MacDonald said they are re-doing the plans. Architects and officers will submit a new proposal once the plans are final.

Lee Walker wants more improvements in the new plans. He believes Arras Square is downtown’s special area. Local businesses and residents want it improved, hoping this benefits everyone.

St Stephen’s Church faces Arras Square; the Buttermarket also fronts the square. Wagamama, Cosy Club, and others are nearby. Improved space helps welcome customers, and better lighting deters bad behavior near St Stephen’s. This improves the space appeal for everyone.

The Arras Square project was meant to cost £900,000. They submitted these prior plans back in January 2023.

The initial January plans included new seating, paving, drainage, and lighting. CCTV, bins, and trees were also in the plans, along with a new mural, and people could share say on the mural’s design.

The council looked at the plans in August 2023. Suffolk police delayed the approval, reporting frequent crime problems there.