IPSWICH: Work on a multi-million development which is set to regenerate an old docklands area will begin at the end of this month, it can be revealed today.

Ipswich-based construction firm ISG Jackson will be working on the initial phase of the regeneration project, which will see 386 new homes and commercial premises built on a disused site bordering Stoke Quay.

A set of old industrial units, including the former Graham’s builder’s merchant, are being knocked down in an area off Great Whip Street to make way for development.

County archaeologists will then have the opportunity to survey the triangular-shaped site and record evidence of Ipswich’s historical past.

The design of the new development incorporates a basement car parking structure, which doubles as a flood defence measure. The new homes are effectively built upon a ground-floor concrete podium deck, which spans the whole site, with the basement providing car parking for 212 vehicles and 598 secure bicycle spaces.

The mixed tenure scheme will feature town houses, flats and extra-care supported accommodation, alongside 1,000sq m of commercial accommodation. Three blocks of flats will be built on the site with 25 terraced townhouses, ranging from three to five bedrooms.

ISG Jackson boss Bernard Clarke said: “Our appointment to the initial phase of this major regeneration scheme marks a return to the docklands area of Ipswich, with previous projects including the extension of the Salthouse Harbour Hotel and the construction of the Neptune Marina mixed-use development.”

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