Marina's £2m redevelopment plan approved

Plans for a £2m waterfront redevelopment have been approved, despite objections from local boat owners.

Ipswich Borough Council granted permission for the redevelopment of Beacon Marina, previously the Neptune Marina, on Wednesday.

A petition against the plans has reached nearly 3,200 signatures and boat owners have criticised a decision to give them two weeks' notice to move.

Associated British Ports (ABP), owner and operator of the Port of Ipswich and the marina, said work could begin in early 2025.

Under the plans, 93 pontoons from the wet dock will be removed and replaced by 15 new ones in front of , and the University of Suffolk's main building.

Two new welfare facilities for the berth users of the marina will also be constructed, while a foul water plant to service one of these will also be built.

Last week the plans were recommended for approval by council planning officers.

Objections to the plans cited a range of issues, including the potential impact on property value, tourism, trade, noise and marine life.

Some representations in support of the plans said they would "improve the aesthetics" while the upgrades to moorings were needed.

ABP said 150 berths at the marina were vacant and infrastructure in the area required "urgent removal and replacement".

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