30th April – Jack Abbott Welcomes Approval of Ipswich Aquatics Centre Plans

Ipswich MP Jack Abbott has welcomed the green light for a major new aquatics centre at Portman Road, following unanimous approval from Ipswich Borough Council’s planning committee.

The centre, part of a wider regeneration project led by Handford Homes, will include a 25-metre main pool, a learner pool, splash pool, and modern wellbeing facilities – all built on the current Portman Road car park site. A new multi-storey car park and landscaped surroundings are also included in the plans.

“This is a really exciting step forward for our town,” said Jack. “The aquatics centre will provide state-of-the-art facilities for residents, boost health and wellbeing, and support the wider regeneration of the Portman Road area.”

The development will also make way for potential expansion of the football stadium's Cobbold Stand, while preserving the iconic Sir Bobby Robson statue.

This project represents another significant investment in Ipswich’s future.