TOWN TALKS with Terry Baxter

Reopening Ipswich Town Centre

There’s a big effort underway to get businesses in Ipswich ready for reopening from Monday. 15th June. Adapting to the current social distancing measures in place isn't going to be easy for the town centre; however Ipswich Central is working closely with Ipswich Borough Council and other key partners to help our local business community to get back on their feet. This episode was recorded over Zoom to enable the speakers to follow social distancing rules.

Reopening Ipswich Town Centre

As the Government announce the timeline for reopening businesses, services and retail; Terry Baxter speaks to Paul Clement (CEO for Ipswich Central and for Savills Place) about how reopening will look for Ipswich and what businesses can expect.

How restaurants are adapting to Coronavirus with Grant Owen

For all restaurants, pubs and bars the social distancing measures put in place to help contain the Coronavirus outbreak have hit hard; with many temporarily closing their premises. However many eateries are quickly adapting and taking dynamic action to keep their businesses operating. Grant Owen, owner of The Forge Kitchen, speaks to Terry about how they have adapted and their plans for the future.

The Future of Ipswich's arts industry with Sarah Holmes

The entertainment sector is struggling with affects of COVID-19 but Sarah Holmes (CEO of New Wolsey Theatre) has innovated by hosting a ‘Big Night In’ of digital performances with some 25,000 people tuning in. Sarah joins Terry remotely on our podcast to discuss how our theatres and artists can get back on their feet as social distancing is phased-out.

Coronavirus & Stronger Towns Fund with Tom Hunt MP

Terry speaks to Tom Hunt, MP for Ipswich, about the Government's Stronger Towns Fund which could be key for Ipswich and town centres across the county as we look ahead at a "new normal" after coronavirus. Discussing this and much more in our first TOWN TALKS episode (this podcast was recorded remotely as the host and guest are following social distancing guidance).