Work to transform an empty building on Ipswich Waterfront has moved a step closer now that contracts to begin the development have been signed.

The Winerack building is due to be completed by Christmas 2020 with work already underway on site. The erection of a tower crane during May 2018 will be the first noticeable sign of progress.

The building has been in a semi-constructed condition since 2008. Funding for the redevelopment was agreed in the spring and after months of legal work, the contract for the work has now been awarded to R G Carter.

The completed project will create 149 residential units and 5,000 square feet of commercial space. It will support 56 new jobs. It is a key development in the Ipswich Vision project, which brings together local partners to work towards a single vision for the regeneration of Ipswich town centre.

James Wilson, Director and General Manager of R G Carter Ipswich said, “R G Carter is delighted to be delivering this exciting project and is proud to play a part in the town’s vision for regeneration.”