Ipswich Taxi Drivers Challenge Council’s £1.4M Lloyds Avenue Redevelopment

Ipswich Borough Council has recently approved a £1.4 million redevelopment plan for Lloyds Avenue, aiming to improve the town center's accessibility and appearance. The plans include increased pedestrian areas, more greenery, and the installation of digital billboards. While the project has received positive support from many residents and businesses, it has sparked significant opposition from local taxi drivers, particularly over the reduction of taxi spaces.

The redesign will cut the number of available taxi spaces from 21 to 11. Local taxi drivers have raised concerns that this change could severely impact passengers, especially those who rely on accessible services, such as the elderly and disabled. Taxi drivers argue that the reduction of spaces will make it more difficult for these passengers to access taxis in a safe and convenient manner.

Taxi drivers have also launched a petition in response to the council's decision, gathering signatures from local residents who share similar concerns. They are currently exploring legal challenges by reviewing traffic regulation orders (TROs), which may offer a route to block or modify the plans. Disability campaigner Luke O'Brien has joined the protest, emphasizing the importance of Lloyds Avenue's flat surface, which allows easy accessibility for wheelchair users and those with other mobility impairments.

Ipswich Borough Council defends its decision, stating that the reduction in taxi spaces is supported by data, including CCTV footage showing that current demand does not justify the 21 spaces. Council leader Neil MacDonald addressed the controversy, calling the redevelopment a "significant step forward" in creating a "vibrant, accessible, and community-centred town center." He also assured that pedestrian accessibility remains a top priority and that alternative pick-up locations are available nearby, including Black Horse Lane and Museum Street.

Mr. Rogers, group operations manager at Three Wise Monkeys and chair of Ipswich Barwatch, expressed his support for the redevelopment. He said:

"This project will undoubtedly enhance and improve this area of the town centre in a positive way. From the perspective of a business operator on Lloyds Avenue itself, we feel that improvements like this are fundamentally essential for local businesses in Ipswich."

Lee Walker, CEO of Ipswich Central, also voiced his approval, stating:

"Enhancing the external space for business on Lloyds Avenue and improving its aesthetic is a strong step forward in creating a town centre that works for what people want today."

Despite the strong backing from the local business community and the public consultations that showed wide support for the project, taxi drivers and disability advocates remain steadfast in their opposition. With Suffolk Highways now withdrawing its objections to the scheme, the future of the redevelopment depends on whether the taxi alliance can garner enough public support for their petition or if their legal challenges can delay or alter the plans.