IPSWICH: Twelve months after it was suddenly closed following safety concerns, Crown car park has officially reopened – just in time for the Christmas rush.

The multi-storey car park was shut down in October last year after an inspection uncovered serious problems. The structure was deemed beyond repair after suffering from “concrete cancer” for decades.

Demolition of the 1,001-space site started in April – turning it into 40,000 tonnes of rubble within a month.

However, retailers in the town centre have told of their joy after the car park was reopened as a surface pay and display.

The facility will provide spaces for 227 vehicles - including 12 spaces for holders of disabled badges.

While capacity has been significantly reduced, the reopening of the car park will come as a real boost to town centre traders.

Councillor Tanya De Hoedt said: “We promised the residents that we would have something in place for Ipswich shopping this Christmas and we have.

“It’s important we support businesses in the town, and by officially opening the new car park in time for Christmas we are supporting those town centre retailers.”

Mike Sorhaindo, centre manager of Tower Ramparts, said the car park was a big boost for the town.

“It’s fair to say that while it was closed, it did have a negative impact on the foot fall through the centre.

“We are very excited as the opening has come in time for the Christmas sales. “

n What facilities do you think Ipswich needs? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN.