Proposals to build a new leisure and aquatics centre outside Ipswich Town Football Club’s stadium have been submitted.
Handford Developments, run by Ipswich Borough Council (IBC), has submitted full plans for Ipswich Aquatics Centre, in Portman Road.
If approved, it would include a 25 metre, eight lane swimming pool, a learner pool, a soft play area, a 115-station gym, a sauna and a new cafe.
Planning documents highlighted the possibility that a hotel could be built nearby, in line with a public consultation.
In addition, redevelopment of ITFC’s Cobbold Stand has also been proposed alongside a new pedestrian route and outside areas.
The site the aquatics centre would be built on is currently a car park. A new multi-storey car park is also part of IBC’s masterplan to compensate for the loss of about 500 spaces.
Ipswich Aquatics Centre would replace Crown Pools. Plans for this were approved in 2022.
Planning documents said: “The new Ipswich Aquatics Centre will be strategically positioned between key buildings around the area, providing a cohesive link and offering a dynamic space for recreation, wellness, and community engagement.
“With its prime location and thoughtful design, the new Ipswich Aquatics Centre aims to become the vibrant focal point of the neighborhood, catering to diverse interests and promoting social integration.”
When the masterplan was unveiled in March, Cllr Neil MacDonald, leader of IBC, described the new centre as a ‘community jewel’ which would work towards revitalising the town.
The plans have been delivered alongside Suffolk County Council and ITFC.
Planning documents added: “The new Fitness Suite facility has the potential to be a truly exceptional space.
“It can house an extensive range of modern equipment, and enhance the user experience by becoming an extremely attractive environment within the new facility.”
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