Ipswich Society discusses bid for City of Culture 2029

Previously, Ipswich MP Jack Abbott said he has had conversations with relevant ministers, believing that the town has "phenomenal creative talents" and that should be showcased on the national stage, through a potential bid for City of Culture 2029.

The City of Culture does not have to be an actual city - meaning Ipswich would be eligible to apply to have the status.

Ipswich Society spoke positively of the plans in its newsletter, adding that the county town has a lot to offer residents. 

The society had mentioned the several multi-cultural events in town (Image: Charlotte Bond) In its newsletter, the society wrote: "When you think about it, Ipswich has so much going for it: the first English/Anglo-Saxon town with 12 medieval churches and over 600 listed buildings, beautiful parks and it is a tree city of the world.

"Our heritage open days must be one of the best in the country with numerous buildings open."

Ipswich MP Jack Abbott (Image: Jack Abbott)

The newsletter also mentioned the several exhibition spaces, theatres, DanceEast and cinemas in town, as well as art trails, and multi-cultural events. 

It was also mentioned that if Ancient House is still empty by 2029, then it would be the "perfect starting point" for visitors to the town. 

The town also hosts several events (Image: Tom Cann) The society added: "Ipswich can look very sad (along with many other towns) due to the closure of the big shops, so we have to look at other ways to attract people into the town centre, not only with art and music but beer festivals and things such as the recent pop-up retro gaming event."

The City of Culture scheme is designed to recognise and celebrate the culture of communities and contribute to regeneration and cultural participation through a year-long programme.

Councils are the only ones with the ability to send a bid, however, and Ipswich Borough Council has not yet officially stated if it has any plans or not.