Ipswich Borough Council has lodged a planning application for a new multi-storey car park at Portman Road.

The scheme proposes a modern facility providing 718 spaces in total: 36 Blue Badge bays, 26 dedicated electric vehicle spaces, 14 motorcycle bays and cycle parking. Of these, 655 spaces would be within an eight-storey structure, with a further 63 in an adjoining surface car park.

The car park is a cornerstone of the Council-led Portman Road Masterplan. It must be built and operating before other phases proceed, as it will replace long-stay spaces displaced by a planned state-of-the-art Aquatics Centre focused on sport, leisure and community well-being, support potential hospitality uses, and enable a possible expansion of Ipswich Town Football Club’s Cobbold Stand.

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If approved, construction is expected to start in late summer 2026 and finish by the end of 2027.

Councillor Neil MacDonald, Leader of Ipswich Borough Council, said: "This multi-storey car park is a vital first step in delivering the Portman Road Masterplan. By approving the revised design and budget, we're enabling progress on key developments like the new Aquatics Centre, while ensuring long-stay parking is maintained for residents and visitors."