IPSWICH waterfront is set to become a centre of excellence and instantly recogniseable under new measures to redevelop the site.The innovative development, at St Peter's Port, will be the first site in Britain to see three hotels built in the same complex.
IPSWICH waterfront is set to become a centre of excellence and instantly recogniseable under new measures to redevelop the site.
The innovative development, at St Peter's Port, will be the first site in Britain to see three hotels built in the same complex.
All three hotels have already been signed although Braceforce have not revealed which companies are involved.
The actual design for the scheme has now been unveiled for the first time showing a water-influenced design with green, wavy glass.
As revealed in The Evening Star earlier this year, three hotels have already been signed although Braceforce have not revealed which companies are involved.
More than 300 jobs will be created to staff the hotels with more vacancies to operate restaurants, bars and retail outlets also included on the site.
There will also be a 450-space underground car park, as well as apartments and offices included in the project put forward by developers, Braceforce.
The £75million development, which is located between Star Lane and College Street, could be completed as early as 2008.
John Di Carlo, of Braceforce, said: "We hope it will become a centre of excellence that gives instant recognition whenever it is seen.
"It will create homes, jobs, parking and hopefully pride for the people of Ipswich."
Piers Gough, the architect behind the building, said a strong influence had come from the Willis building in Ipswich and so the 12-storey development will be made of translucent glass panels.
Mr Gough said: "The green glass will give a slippery, watery quality and will be placed in a wavy pattern to reflect the water.
"We have also been influenced by the surrounding churches and we hope to link the two towers of St Peter's Church and St Mary on the Quay Church by having a pathway running through the centre of the development."
There will also be a deep cut in the side of the development to show the view of St Mary le Tower Church across the town.
MP Chris Mole said: "This looks like a very exciting project. It looks to show Ipswich has a history but is also a place that is moving forward."
n. Do you think the proposals are suitable for Ipswich Waterfront? If not, what would you like to see? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or email eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk
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