PROPERTY bosses are today hoping more people will consider moving to the town after a survey revealed Ipswich is one of the safest places to live in the UK.

About 25,000 people were questioned in Rightmove’s quarterly consumer confidence survey – which listed Ipswich as the ninth safest place to live.

The news comes just weeks after it emerged crime in the town fell 13per cent between April and August this year.

Alex Leader, of estate agents Savills, said: “I think Ipswich is great. To have some of the most affordable house prices in the eastern region, the quality of life and the facilities, I’m surprised it is not higher in the findings. For quality of life and value for money – I think Ipswich is one of the best places around.”

Jonathan Waters, of Jonathan Waters Estate Agents, added: “It is very encouraging. Any positive news about Ipswich is always extremely welcome and anything that would encourage people in is brilliant.”

The safest place to live, according to the survey, is Exeter, while Norwich was fourth.

The survey also looked at house prices, public transport, education and health facilities.

The findings received mixed reviews from Ipswich homeowners.

Anthony Elvin, of Ipswich, said: “I feel quite safe. I walk around the town centre in the evenings and after dark and I feel quite safe.”

Mandy Ascencao, also of Ipswich, added: “I haven’t really felt unsafe before. Ipswich is a lovely place to live I think.”

However Claire Elphick, who also lives in the town, said: “Personally I am shocked. Every time I see the news or go on the internet, something else has happened.”