Decision details

On 2nd November 2021, the Council decided to carry out a public consultation on proposals to install electronic Variable Message Signs (VMS) at 5 locations in Ipswich, and a separate officer decision form of this date provides further details. The relevant ward councillors were also consulted.

The Council received one objection and two representations in respect of the proposals. These have been  carefully considered by a panel of Council officers and, following consultation with the Leader of the  Council, a decision has now been made to proceed with the proposals as originally proposed in  accordance with the Council’s powers under Section 115B of the Highways Act 1980 (provision of services or amenities by councils). Consent has been granted by Suffolk County Council as required by Section 115H of the Act.

The principal use of these signs will be to inform members of the public of the number of parking spaces available at any given time in certain public car parks, in order to help reduce traffic congestion and air pollution caused by drivers circulating the town centre at busy times trying to find a parking space.

The locations in question are:

·         On amenity land located to the north of 2 – 4 Argyle Street such that the sign will project over the adjacent footway on Argyle Street (ALEXANDRA).

·         On the footway outside the west end of 114 Fore Hamlet (The Orwell Centre) (HOLYWELLS).

·         On the footway on the north side of Handford Road to the west of the junction with Portman Road, adjacent to the rear of 9 Dalton Road (GIPPING).

·         On the access path to the Norwich Road Shoppers public car park such that the sign will project over the adjacent footway on Norwich Road (WESTGATE).

·         On the footway on the west side of Princes Street to the south of the junction with Portman Road, adjacent to land that is next to Churchmans House (101 -147 Portman Road) (GIPPING).