Council house development at former Diesco site in Hawke Road, Ipswich, nearing completion, authority says

Construction of 26 council homes on a former car repair shop site in Ipswich is nearing completion.

Gipping Construction is building houses at the former Diesco site, in Hawke Road, and a topping out ceremony took place yesterday, signalling significant progress on the development.

When complete, it will feature a range of homes for families, couples and professionals, from one-bedroom flats to four-bedroom properties, including one which is fully wheelchair accessible.

Cllr Alasdair Ross, from Ipswich Borough Council, said: “This year we’ve seen excellent progress in helping us to deliver more affordable housing for Ipswich, and it’s fantastic to see this development on Hawke Road nearing completion, adding to the number of quality homes available for people with a local connection.”

Once construction has finished, all homes will be handed over to the council. They will also feature solar panels.

The development will incorporate the existing play area next to the site, with a new ‘gas work’ themed play area paying homage to its industrial past.

Cllr Ross added: “The former industrial site has stood empty for a number of years, so it’s positive to see the disused area being resurrected into a vibrant new neighbourhood in southeast Ipswich.

“I’m especially looking forward to the gasworks-themed play area — a nice tribute to the site’s history and a fantastic new asset for the community.”