Capital&Centric has been appointed as development partner to Ipswich Borough Council for the regeneration of the Pauls Silo and historic waterfront site.
The transformation of the site will look to create a new neighbourhood complete with new homes, independent businesses, workspaces and public spaces, while retaining the heritage of the area.
Working alongside international consultancy, Drees & Sommer, which has been appointed by the council, Capital&Centric will now start work on detailed plans for the site, and engage with local communities and stakeholders as the proposals evolve.
The vision includes breathing new life into Pauls Silo, retaining and restoring the landmark building while introducing new uses throughout the site. A green courtyard will sit at the heart of the new community, creating space for outdoor events, markets and socialising, opening up the waterfront for public use.
Capital&Centric will look to build on its past success of transforming overlooked historic buildings into new mixed-use neighbourhoods across the UK, including projects in Manchester, Sheffield, Stockport, Stoke-on-Trent and Gateshead. Its approach focuses on retaining heritage assets wherever possible and creating places that support independent businesses, culture and community.
Martin Crews, development director at Capital&Centric, said: “Pauls Silo is one of those buildings that stops you in your tracks. It’s a true landmark with huge potential, and we’re excited to be working with Ipswich Borough Council and Drees and Sommer to bring it back to life.”
“We’re passionate about finding new futures for historic buildings and creating places with real character. The opportunity to open up the waterfront, create new homes, workspaces, cafés, bars and public spaces, while keeping the heritage at the heart of the project, is incredibly exciting.”
Mike Soffe, director at Drees & Sommer, said: “We are excited to be working with Ipswich Borough Council and Capital&Centric to bring forward such a transformative regeneration project which will have a huge impact on the Ipswich waterfront.”
Neil MacDonald, leader of Ipswich Borough Council, said: “This is a great moment for Ipswich’s waterfront, and the whole area, as part of our ambition for a thriving town. As a port town, for centuries this area has seen the bustle of industry, import and export. I am really pleased that we will be in partnership with Capital&Centric, which will carefully consider both the waterfront’s rich heritage and the vision of its future, invigorating a part of the town that people will want to move to and enjoy, overlooking the water. This is a great boost for existing businesses and the local economy of the town. I look forward to seeing the detailed plans taking shape.”
Further details on the proposals and opportunities for public engagement will be announced as the project progresses.
