CAMPAIGNERS fighting moves to build on countryside at Felixstowe were told today that if the resort joins up with Ipswich the plans could be scrapped.
CAMPAIGNERS fighting moves to build on countryside at Felixstowe were told today that if the resort joins up with Ipswich the plans could be scrapped.
Protesters were thrilled with the announcement - a glimmer of hope in their battle to stop fields being used for 1,700 homes.
Leaders of Ipswich Borough Council said if the new “North Haven” unitary council for south-east Suffolk goes ahead, then the homes project will go back to the drawing board with fresh consultation.
They stressed Felixstowe would not be taken over by Ipswich and pledged to campaigners fighting against the destruction of the greenbelt in Felixstowe and Trimley that their concerns would be taken on board.
Ipswich council is planning to meet representatives of Felixstowe, Kesgrave and other councils to discuss giving them “more influence, more resources and less interference with their plans”.
Liberal Democrat group leader Andrew Cann said: “Local people know what is best for their area and it is only through listening to them that we can make better decisions.
“I know that building on these sites is a big issue for many people and I want to assure them that a new unitary council in south-east Suffolk will look at this again with fresh eyes.
“We will be committed to proper consultation.”
Council leader Liz Harsant said: “This is not a case of anywhere being swallowed up by Ipswich - we will all be equal partners - partners in prosperity. This area has been recognised by the government as a target for investment: this will bring jobs, infrastructure and wealth.”
Ken Ferris, spokesman for the Save Felixstowe Countryside group, said: “We are delighted to hear what Ipswich council officials are saying - that they will be willing to listen to what people want, and we welcome that.
“It is great news and a fantastic opportunity to look again at where new homes for Felixstowe should go and to protect the precious and beautiful countryside on the edge of our town.
“There are other sites which could be used for homes and we need to look at them.”
Will joining up with Ipswich be a good move for Felixstowe? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail EveningStarLetters@eveningstar.co.uk
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