Ipswich: What is the next step for a future city bid?

MP Tom Hunt announced on social media last week that, during a meeting with parliamentary secretary for the cabinet office Alex Burghart, he had been informed that there "would be no City status competition to coincide with the Coronation".

Ipswich MP Tom Hunt. Credit: Office of Tom Hunt (Image: House of Commons)

Mr Hunt went on to explain his view that despite being "softly in favour" of a new bid for Ipswich, he does not see any "game changing" benefits.

Speaking on this news, Ipswich Central, who launched the Ipswich Star-backed Future City campaign, said "this was never about an imminent opportunity" and that "it has always been about the future vision for Ipswich".

Executive chair of the organisation Terry Baxter added: "Since opening this discussion, we have received significant support from businesses, individuals and interested parties. However, the campaign for city status is not for an individual or organisation to own, it must not be political.

Executive chair of Ipswich Central Terry Baxter. Credit: Ipswich Central (Image: Ipswich Central)

"It’s about wider engagement and involvement from communities, to help create a narrative that we can all unite behind, and this is happening in Ipswich right now."

Mr Hunt, who opposed a bid during a competition to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, explained his position to this newspaper.

"I would have been open to supporting it if there had been a good level of public engagement and public support for the bid had been demonstrated," he said.

"I appreciate that a number of people will be disappointed that there isn't going to be another competition.

"I imagine that at some point in the future there will be another opportunity. 

"I've spoken to hundreds of residents and not one person I've spoken to has brought up the issue of City status.

Mr Hunt said he would have been open to supporting a bid if there had been a good level of public engagement and public support. Credit: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

"What has come up time and time again though has been concerns about the Town centre - particularly in relation to crime and anti-social behaviour.

"Tackling this will continue to be a top priority for me.

"Whether we become a City or remain as a Town these key challenges will continue to be there.

"I'm very proud to represent Ipswich and I believe that it can achieve full potential either as a City or the oldest Town in the country."