A redevelopment project for an area of unkempt woodland in Ipswich has taken a step forward with the construction of a new amphitheatre.

Plans for a £250,000 regeneration of Brickmakers’ Wood into an oasis near University Campus Suffolk were announced last year, including work to create the amphitheatre, which was completed this week.

Employees from Ipswich-based firm Skanska worked alongside the Eden-Rose Coppice Trust – a charity which provides respite for people with cancer and outdoor education programmes for children with learning difficulties – for the three day project next to Alexandra Park.

Brickmakers’ Wood manager Jo Brooks hailed the efforts of the 11-strong team, which helped take a significant step towards turning the neglected woodland around.

“Our woodland management plan is designed to create habitats in order to increase biodiversity,” she said.

“However, it’s also important that Brickmakers’ Wood has areas that are original, useable and stimulating. We provide support for a wide variety of people from the local area and the invaluable help from Skanska directly supports them.”

The woodland space will host group talks, music and theatre therapy and provide an outdoor education space.

“The unique woodland amphitheatre offers the perfect setting for performances for children including those with special needs, group talks, music therapy and more. It’s a fantastic addition to our centre of support,” Ms Brooks added.

Inspired by the work of the project, one of the Skanska volunteers, Jacquie Leppard, has signed up to tackle the 10km race in Colchester in May to help raise funds for the next phase of the project building wheelchair-friendly footpaths.

To sponsor Jacquie Leppard, visit www.localgiving.com/jacquie-leppard