A new £12.8million ambulance hub aimed to enhance emergency response efficiency in Ipswich has officially opened.
The new hub on Ransome Industrial Estate was formally unveiled by Lord-Lieutenant of Suffolk, Clare, the Countess of Euston in early October.
It comes after planning permission for the project was given the green light from Ipswich Borough Council in April 2024.
Neill Moloney, Chief Executive of the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST), which will operate the site, said: “We’re proud to officially open this state-of-the-art hub, which represents a significant investment in our people and the future of ambulance services in Ipswich.
“This modern, purpose-built facility is a major upgrade from our previous base and has been designed with staff wellbeing and operational performance at its core.
“It’s a vital step forward in creating the kind of environment that helps our teams thrive and deliver the best possible care to our communities.”
The project was delivered by East Anglia-based Pentaco Construction, alongside Concertus and chartered surveyors Chawton Hill.
Key features of the hub – which will base around 100 staff – include smart technologies and on-site renewable energy generation through more than 390m2 of solar panels.
A two-storey car park has also been built to accommodate 78 cars and 29 ambulances, with scope for future expansion.
A fully integrated repair shop and dedicated vehicle preparation area have also been built into the hub.
Kerry Gaskin, the Local Area Manager at the hub, added the new building will also help to boost staff wellbeing through its breakout spaces.
She said: “This new hub is already making a real difference to our teams and is a significant upgrade from what we had previously at our old site.
“Having dedicated wellbeing areas where colleagues can take a break, recharge and feel supported makes a huge impact on morale and helps us continue delivering high-quality care to the public.”
Funding for the project was achieved through a £10m contribution from the Department of Health and Social Care, alongside £2.81million from the ambulance trust.
An additional £109,000 was secured from Great British Energy to support the solar panel installation.