Part of The Winerack in Ipswich Waterfront could be hotel

Unit 1 of The Winerack in Ipswich Waterfront could be the new home for a short to medium-stay hotel after plans were submitted to Ipswich Borough Council.

In planning documents, it states that the unit has "historically been used for commercial purposes falling within Use Class E."

"The first-floor accommodation is currently underutilised and is suitable for reuse without requiring substantial external alterations."

The first floor would be converted into what developers, Tammie Homes, call an aparthotel, which would provide short to medium-stay visitor accommodation with self-contained units, managed by a single operator.

The Winerack in Ipswich (Image: Charlotte Bond)

The hotel would be aimed at businesses and leisure visitors, with it operating in a manner similar to a hotel, rather than permanent residential accommodation.

No material external alterations to the building will be done.

Developers said that it would be an "acceptable" location within the town centre and the proposed change of use would support the local economy and tourism sector, increase footfall and spending in nearby businesses, make efficient use of existing commercial floorspace and avoid the need for new build development.

They also said that there will be appropriate management measures in place to ensure controlled guest behaviour, limited noise and disturbance during unsocial hours and proper waste storage and collection arrangements.

In conclusion, Tammie Homes, said: "The proposal represents a sustainable form of development in an appropriate town centre location and would deliver clear economic and regeneration benefits without causing harm to residential amenity, highways safety, or the character of the area."