Editorial: On Being Pro-Ipswich

This issue

I hope you will find plenty to interest you in this Newsletter. There are comments on new development proposals - which have slowed down but certainly not stopped despite the recession. Brian Jepson's photographs should encourage you to look up and appreciate buildings in town. You can also read about unusual historical subjects and look forward to events we have organised. And Mike Brain brings together disparate subjects to show how people respond in ambiguous ways to conflicting demands in the modern world.

Decisions soon

The new Secretary of State and his team will have to put their minds to the problem of what to do about boundary changes affecting Ipswich and Suffolk. Their decision will affect us all for many years to come. Of the two options on the table, the Society continues to support the North Haven + Rest of Suffolk proposal because we consider that is best for Ipswich, although we recognise that some members might prefer a Single Suffolk solution. But on balance and for reasons which are economic, historical and geographical, we think North Haven (comprising Ipswich, Felixstowe and adjacent villages) would constitute a more appropriate authority.

Partnerships?

Whether or not boundaries are changed, partnerships within specific areas of local government could be developed, even if necessary crossing boundaries. The Colchester and Ipswich Museums Service is an example of a radical change to meet changing circumstances, especially issues of funding. And outside local government itself, the recent controversy about moving some heart attack treatments away from Ipswich Hospital led IBC's Chief Executive, James Hehir, to point out that the joint populations of Ipswich and Colchester and their hinterlands should justify the provision of such medical services in our populous area. Compartments are useful, but so are imagination and vision.

Finally

Please use the enclosed sheet and feel free to nominate buildings or improvement schemes for our Annual Awards. And don't forget that 2010 is our 50th anniversary year with many special events to look forward to. It's not too late to pass on any more suggestions for next year to Tony Marsden or other committee members - contact details are on the back page.

Neil Salmon