Plans to relocate an Ipswich recycling centre due to "increase in demand" hope to submit a planning application this year after public consultation. 

Suffolk County Council and FFC Environment has set out the proposals to move the Portman's Walk Recycling Centre to a new location currently occupied by Ipswich Borough Council's operational depot in Whittle Road on Hadleigh Road Industrial Estate. 

The proposal is to redevelop the current site to a split-level recycling centre, including a raised mezzanine platform to help users safely dispose of their waste.

The new site is designed to make access for residents easier as well as maximise the recycling of household waste. 

READ MORE: Multi-million pound redevelopment of Ipswich waste centre completed

Since opening in the 1980s, the current site at Portman Walk has caused issues with queuing traffic and with the bus garage opposite the site.

Suffolk County Council started plans to move the site six years ago as part of a planned £6million upgrade for recycling centres across Suffolk.

People living in Ipswich are asked to share their views on the new proposed site by emailing waste.management@suffolk.gov.uk before March 11, 2024. 

After consultation, it is hoped a planning application will be submitted later this year and there will be further opportunities for residents to give feedback as the project progresses. 

Cllr Richard Smith MVO said: "This new facility is needed to overcome an increase in demand at Portman's Walk, which is only set to increase with the forecasted housing growth in the area, and which has resulted in congestion and delays to the local road traffic network. This new design would allow for more capacity and increase the number of booking slots available to residents.

"We are now offering residents a chance to have their say at an early stage of the process before we seek planning permission in 2024/25."

The current site at Portman Walk will stay operational until the new site is opened.

Those who would like to ask a question about the proposals can drop into Endeavour House Reception on Tuesday, March 5, and Wednesday, March 6 to speak to staff who will be on a stand during the lunchtime period.