Decision details

From August 2022 until January 2023 IBC had been working with SLC (Sport, Leisure & Culture consultancy) on the development of designs for the new Gainsborough Sports Centre Complex off Braziers Wood Road in the Southeast of Ipswich. Public consultation was undertaken in December 2022, and the project was temporarily put on hold thereafter, due to funding constraints. An expanded modern sports centre with Athletics facilities and combined gymnastics offer (Pipers Vale Gymnastics Club) is a central

element of the Sports Facilities Strategy 2022-30.

In order to be able to progress the development when funding becomes available it is necessary to complete the design and progress to a planning application.

It is proposed to appoint SLC under a new ESPO Framework Agreement to revise plans as required to meet changes to the proposed layouts, undertake a value engineering exercise, and issue all revised drawings and associated documents required to submit a Full Planning Application.

To appoint SLC (Sport, Leisure & Culture consultancy) to undertake the design review noted above and liaise with IBC officers and associated consultants to submit a Full Planning Application and enter a new agreement under ESPO framework 664_21 (Lot 7) which was launched on 1 September 2023 and is effective until 31 August 2025, to a maximum value of £175,000.00.

Reason:

To provide continuity of consultancy and updated facilities to meet user expectations and increasing sports club use, including Athletics and an expanded Gymnastics offer to meet increasing demand and provide facilities that will benefit the health and well-being of Ipswich residents.