Decision day looms on Ipswich plans for digital binoculars for use in augmented reality trails

Decision day looms on plans to install a series of ‘digital binoculars’ in Ipswich town centre for use in augmented reality trails.

Next Wednesday, Ipswich Borough Council’s planning and development committee will meet to discuss three separate applications for six installations.

These are outside the James Hehir Building and Old Customs House at the waterfront, Giles Circus, the Cornhill, Christchurch Park and St Peter’s Wharf.

All three applications have been recommended for approval.

These would be used for augmented reality trails as part of the Digital Ipswich scheme, paid for by the £25 million Towns Fund.

A list of augmented reality trails coming to the town this year can be found here.

Planning documents said: “The digital binoculars are permanent sculptures that offer both augmented reality and virtual reality experiences, allowing users to view animated and interactive historical scenes layered over real-world views or immersive reconstructions.

“Users simply look through the device to access the content—there are no screens or buttons.”