RESIDENTS are set to be consulted on BT's “vision” for the future of its huge research base at Martlesham Heath.The global communications giant is inviting members of the community to give it feedback on its multi-million pound intentions to regenerate Adastral Park.

RESIDENTS are set to be consulted on BT's “vision” for the future of its huge research base at Martlesham Heath.

The global communications giant is inviting members of the community to give it feedback on its multi-million pound intentions to regenerate Adastral Park.

It wants to more than more than treble the size of its current business and innovation park by building new homes, leisure facilities and green areas as well as updating the existing business centre.

Adastral Park is BT's centre of telecommunications research and has been the leading such research base in Britain for 40 years. At present about 4,000 people are employed there - making it one of the biggest employers in the Ipswich area.

As it develops its plans, BT is holding a series of showcase events to be held between Saturday, March 29 and Thursday, April 3 in the communities situated close to the park.

Members of the public will have an opportunity to view the proposals and comment on them.

Phil Dance, senior manager at Adastral Park, said: “BT Adastral Park is home to world-leading communications technology and innovation.

“To maintain this position, we need to modernise and update our facilities here in Martlesham. We have a unique opportunity to develop a living and working environment that creates a truly 21st century sustainable community. A community that continues to support the local economy through jobs, investment and education collaboration.

“We are keen to share our vision on what can be achieved at Adastral Park and gather valuable feedback from local people.”

BT owns Adastral Park and the 100 acres on which the current buildings have been developed. It owns a further 250 acres to the east and south of the currently developed area. Much of that area has been used for industrial and quarrying activity and BT says it could be restored and “aesthetically landscaped” within its new vision.

Do you think the proposed expansion of Adastral Park will be good for the area? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk

BT's vision for Adastral Park includes:

Creating “21st century accommodation” through a transformation of the existing commercial buildings, which will help to “future-proof” the park and deliver new jobs.

Utilising new technologies on sustainable and environmentally efficient techniques

The development of a new residential community, including educational facilities, shops and leisure facilities

Showcase will be held in:

Shire Hall, Woodbridge on Saturday, March 29 from 10am to 5pm

Waldringfield village hall on Monday, March 31 from 10am to 8pm

St Michael's and All Angels Church community centre, Martlesham Heath on Tuesday, April 1 from 2pm and 8pm

Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre on Wednesday, April 2 from 10am to 8pm

St Michael's and All Angels Church community centre, Martlesham Heath on Thursday, April 3 from 2pm to 8pm