Ipswich reacts to Wiff Waff closure on the Waterfront

This newspaper has revealed that Wiff Waff Sports Bar will close its doors for the final time on Sunday, April 14.

The bar has been situated in Key Street on Ipswich Waterfront, next to Pizza Express, since opening in 2018 - taking over from Grand Central Bar.

Bar staff confirmed the venue would be closing, but said they hoped to see the bar continue to be used as such.

Councillor John Cook (Image: Ipswich Labour Party)

Ipswich borough councillor John Cook, for the Alexandra Ward area, which includes Ipswich Waterfront, expressed sadness at the news of the closure.

He said: "I'm sorry to see Wiff Waff close - especially so for the staff who work there.

"There are still many options for eating and drinking on the Waterfront, and a new one, Loungers, opening October, having obtained licensing and planning permission from the Council.

"Ipswich Waterfront is a place where restaurants and bars wish to operate, and I hope that we see Wiff Waff's premises reopening soon under new ownership and management."

Wiff Waff on Ipswich Waterfront (Image: Google Maps)

Terry Baxter, chair of Ipswich Central, said the town "can still attract new investment" despite the closure being announced.

He added: "Clearly at a time when the hospitality sector nationally is under pressure because of the continuing cost of living crisis, news that Wiff Waff has decided to close its doors is disappointing.

"However, Ipswich Waterfront and indeed the wider town is blessed with exceptional places to eat, drink and stay.

"With news that Loungers is planning to open later this year in a waterfront warehouse conversion, this signals confidence that Ipswich can still attract new investment."

Ipswich Central Chair Terry Baxter (Image: NICOLE DRURY/IBC)