COMMUNITY HUB

We’re busy behind the scenes creating a fantastic new space for community use! Over the coming months we’ll be offering community events, talks, tours, exhibitions, school workshops, an opportunity for local students to set design our spaces and creative writing workshops for adults… Stay tuned to this page for more news about these exciting events and community activities. 

Feedback from the event:

Tourist Information Centre
Establish a centre at GWHH with support from IBC/Ipswich Centre and volunteer stewards from the Ipswich Society. – C. Markham, Secretary, Ipswich Society

Versatile Event Spaces
Make spaces available for meetings, lunches, poetry readings, and more. Ensure quality and visual uniformity in arts spaces, and engage the community in the planning process. Regular tours could be offered by volunteers. – Kath Cockshaw, Wolsey550

Historical and Cultural Recognition
Highlight notable music acts such as The Beatles who stayed in Ipswich and use the courtyard for school workshops and plays. Create artist spaces on the ground floor and combine tourist information with a bakery and bookshop.

Cafes and Bakeries
Establish high-quality cafes and bakeries to create a vibrant town centre. – Councillor Jane Riley

Carl Giles Connection
Explore links with the renowned cartoonist Carl Giles to enhance community engagement. Ensure the space serves as a genuine community hub, not just a trendy concept. – Erica Burral

Promoting the Arts
Attract young people by involving professionals from Dance East, New Wolsey, and others. Offer diverse activities like football, piano competitions, choirs, tea dancing, bookshops, and art exhibitions. Collaborate with the Ipswich Institute for additional classes and ensure long-term engagement with younger generations through school partnerships.

Reviving Historical Features
Reinstate the old bar/coffee shop format in the courtyard and consider options like Two Magpies chain for the downstairs area. The large upstairs room could serve as a restaurant, and a high-end bakery café could be established in the front downstairs area. – Erica Burral