A great name revived
After reporting sadly in the October 2002 Newsletter that the name of Ransomes seemed to have gone for ever, it's pleasing to note that Ransomes Jacobsen is the new name for the company's grass maintenance equipment following the take-over of previous owners Textron.

A three-year plan
Ipswich Partnership launched its 3-year business plan in March. This broadly based plan addresses the need for good transport and car parking as well as improving the town centre's attractiveness for shoppers and retailers. They point out that the increase in the numbers of new flats close to the town centre could help to attract more national retailers. It should be interesting to hear more when Paul Clement, the head of the Partnership, talks to the Society next March.

Making a new home
Suffolk County Council's new headquarters in Russell Road will be called Endeavour House. Work has been proceeding fixing the panels to the unfinished parts of the shell. The staff of approximately 1,000 should start moving in early next year. It should augur well that SCC's purchase of the building originally intended for TXU received cross-party approval.

The year has gone quickly
The market on the Cornhill has been licensed to continue until at least September 2004. It has functioned well since moving there in May 2002. IBC is considering the need to make extra space available, probably down Princes Street and into Queen Street, for which an Act of Parliament would be required. There is a waiting list of potential new traders.

Hotline for graffiti
IBC and Ipswich Partnership have set up a hotline (01473 433000) for members of the public to report graffiti so that a specialist cleaning crew can move in quickly. We applaud this initiative. Ipswich may be less affected by this blight than some other towns of comparable size but graffiti in our town can still be dispiriting if left for long.

Taken to the cleaners
Ajax on the comer of St Nicholas Street and Friars Street has long been a useful shop for electrical appliance repairs and accessories. But this characteristic old 17th century building (included in the Society's Local List) was badly neglected. Good to see therefore that it has at last been repaired and redecorated. A reminder below of the before and after appearances.