Suffolk One bid for new bus stops and free travel in Ipswich

People living in the Pinewood area of south-west Ipswich have been plagued by parking issues as students at One Sixth Form College, in Scrivener Drive, have left their vehicles in nearby residential streets.

Jake Robson, group principal of One, hopes to see the proposals put an end to the saga that has caused frustration for those living in the area.

One has submitted a bid to Suffolk County Council in partnership with Sproughton and Pinewood's Babergh district councillor Helen Davies and FirstBus.

It is asking for a new bus stop and crossing in London Road, as well as a grant to offer students free travel ride concessions on the park and ride Bus. 

This comes after Pinewood residents have told this newspaper about pupils parking their cars on residential roads, while students said that the lack of parking spaces and bus fees were the reason for them to do so. 

The group principal of the college Jake Robson said that One has tripled in size since first opening.  (Image: Eastern Education Group) Mr Robson said that since the college first opened it has tripled in size and has had solutions such as free parking for students at London Road park and ride and new bus routes.

He added: “Furthermore, in partnership with Sproughton and Pinewood District Councillor Helen Davies and FirstBus, we have submitted a funding bid for consideration to Suffolk County Council.

"The bid proposes opening the new bus stops and crossing on London Road and offering students at One a free travel concession on the park and ride Bus, to reduce transfer time for those parking at the London Road park and ride facility.

“We have also been conducting research with our students, prospective students and parents around the idea of providing additional transport routes and options via bus. 

“As a result of this, we have introduced additional routes and stops on our bus network, providing direct services to One from Stowupland, Felixstowe, Claydon, Colchester, Leiston, Harwich, Woodbridge, Sudbury and Hadleigh.

"We continue to emphasise local park and ride facilities as a travel option and encourage walking, cycling and public transport if these options are feasible."

He added that they have been engaging with the students to address their issues while being mindful of the students. 

Residents had complained about students parking on residential roads. (Image: Shikhar Talwar)

Councillor Christopher Hudson had previously spoken about the issues faced by residents of Pinewood.  (Image: Archant) Suffolk County Councillor Christopher Hudson had previously spoken about the annoyance felt by the residents. 

He said: "This is becoming a whack-a-mole complex because it is just so hard for people to park there anymore.

"Students should know to park at the park and ride and not disturb the residents here."