Work has officially started on a new project to bring more trees and plants to Queen Street in Ipswich, Suffolk, during the week of 24 February 2026. This initiative is part of a wider effort by Ipswich Borough Council to create more pleasant public spaces and improve the environment for shoppers and residents.
The work on Queen Street is one of four main areas in the town centre being updated as part of the scheme. Other locations include Princes Street, St Nicholas Street, and Wolsey Square, which will all see similar environmental improvements.
Funding for the project comes from the Government Local Regeneration Fund, which was previously known as the Towns Fund. The council is using native, drought-resistant trees and various types of plants, mosses, and flowers that attract pollinators to improve the biodiversity of the urban area.
Council Leader Neil MacDonald stated that adding these green spaces through new trees and planting areas delivers environmental, social, health, and economic advantages. Visitors and shoppers may experience some disruption while the work is being carried out, but the council says the long-term benefits will create a more attractive sustainable environment.
The project is being delivered in collaboration with Greener Ipswich CIC, which has sourced some of the plants through a partnership with HMP Hollesley Bay. All construction work across the four town centre locations is expected to be finished by Spring 2026.
