The businessman behind the development to complete the Winerack on the Waterfront has become the new chairman of Ipswich Conservative Association.

John Howard, who is also working with Mcarthy and Stone to redevelop the former EADT/Ipswich Star site in Lower Brook Street, was elected as the new chairman of the Association at its annual general meeting.

He said: “There is an awful lot of very positive work going on right across the country behind the scenes and I feel it is our duty to ensure that these messages and accomplishments by the Conservative government are heard by everyone in Ipswich.

“I believe it is an incredibly exciting time to be involved in the Conservative Party and over the next year, we will have stronger social media presence to ensure we are appealing to and reaching everyone, as well as other initiatives reconnecting with youth – something that party chairman Brandon Lewis is currently supporting.”