Port One park Ipswich respond to expansion concerns

Curzon De Vere, the developer of Port One Logistics Park in Great Blakenham, says the site will be rebranded to Port One Technology Park by spring 2026.

The move reflects its plans to attract artificial intelligence businesses, alongside those in motorsport research, agritech, food production and research and development with its new expansion.

It also says the building will account for 17% of the overall site, so will "not be visually intrusive".

Curzon De Vere's Managing Director, Matt Slater. (Image: Curzon De Vere)

"Local residents will not be able to see, hear, or smell the site", said Curzon De Vere's Managing Director, Matt Slater.

This comes after Suffolk County Council issued a holding objection to the planned expansion of the site near Ipswich - due to the potential impact on road infrastructure.

Chris Chambers, Suffolk County Councillor for the area, said residents feared a "concrete jungle" and opposed the plans on the basis of potential congestion.

Suffolk County Councillor Chris Chambers. (Image: Suffolk County Council)

However, Mr Slater says the business is "working closely" with transport consultants and the proposed upgrades will "exceed both current demand and future growth projections".

He added: "We welcome further technical workshops with Chris Chambers and his team at Suffolk County Council to demonstrate the robustness of the transport modelling, alongside the site’s strong environmental and sustainability credentials.

"We fully recognise Mr Chambers’ role as the local councillor for the area and respect the position he has taken in representing his constituents.

"Port One will continue to address all consultee comments over the coming months and will engage with local parishes on community benefits that go beyond planning requirements.

Curzon DV Group first announced they would be submitting plans in March (Image: Port One)

"As the largest employer in the area, CDV Group takes its community responsibilities seriously. "

Mr Slater also noted that the site will include a technology innovation centre to support early-stage businesses with plans for a nearby five-pitch football facility for Claydon Football Club.

Total angel investment into the Port One project now totals more than £500 million, secured from both UK and international sources.

However, concern remains within the community, with 44 objections to the outline application.

The main fears include the impact on local infrastructure, protection of badger setts in the area and the "industrialisation" of the area and air pollution.

Andrew Stringer, Mid Suffolk Cabinet Member for Heritage, Planning and Infrastructure, also recently stressed the importance of nature and biodiversity as strong considerations.