The recent Towns Deal and Vision Board meeting held in Ipswich last week was a significant gathering aimed at developing and implementing a vision for the town. The board is composed of members from various sectors, including local councils, MPs, university, college, businesses, and Ipswich Central, and plays a crucial role in overseeing the delivery of the Towns Deal. Notably, the meeting welcomed Jack Abbott, whose insights into the town’s future were particularly impactful.
Helen Langton from the university delivered a noteworthy presentation, introducing an ambitious project for Ipswich that is yet to be revealed, but promises to be a significant development for the town. Unfortunately, this marked the final board meeting for Helen and Terry Baxter, who were duly thanked and wished well in their future endeavors.
Among the various updates on the £25 million Town Deal, the focus is particularly on the Digital Ipswich project, which encompasses several innovative initiatives set to unfold over the next twelve months.
One of these initiatives is the Augmented Reality (AR) project, which aims to create 10 AR trails offering interactive experiences for users to explore Ipswich. These trails will provide engaging and unique experiences, including the “Sammy the Rudolph Christmas Adventure” and the “Digby and Beattie Adventure,” where animals from the town centre will be introduced. Additionally, the All About Ipswich website, managed by Ipswich Central, will undergo a revamp to provide comprehensive information for planning visitors’ journeys, accommodations, and activities in one convenient location.
Furthermore, a digital billboard with an art installation will be incorporated to enhance the appeal of Lloyds Arch, transforming an unattractive area into a community-focused initiative to promote the town’s heritage and culture. In addition, a unique 3D model of Ipswich Town will be created, showcasing all heritage sites in both physical and digital form.
The Digital Ipswich project will also feature a series of TEDx events, offering live speakers and recorded TED Talks under a free license granted by TED. These events will contribute significantly to the intellectual enrichment of the community.
The Digital Ipswich project is poised to bring a ‘wow’ factor to the town, with several groundbreaking developments underway.
In conclusion, Ipswich’s digital transformation will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the town’s future. These innovative initiatives will enhance the town’s appeal and provide engaging experiences for its residents and visitors alike.
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