Ipswich has been granted Heritage Harbour status. This is to recognise the historical significance of its harbour. The use of the port can be dated back to the 7th Century, and it soon became the biggest wet dock in Britain. This was achieved in 1842. It’s one of 12 harbours and inland ports. Wells-Next-The-Sea in Norfolk, along with Heybridge have also been awarded the status. The award has helped to highlight the timeless legacy of Ipswich.

Heritage Harbour Status can only be given by the National Working Group of Heritage Harbours.  This happens to be supported by the Maritime Heritage Trust, Historic England and National Historic Ships UK.

Ipswich’s port is owned and operated by the ABP, or Associated British Ports. It is the UK’s leading export port and handles over two million tonnes of cargo every single year.  Ben Good, the chairman of the Ipswich Maritime Trust, has released a statement saying that they are thrilled that the city’s importance as a historical trading port has finally been recognised, and that they are proud to acknowledge the warehouses and wharves that can be seen to this day, alongside the historical Waterfront. 

The trust have plans to showcase the heritage through boats, buildings and artefacts, as well as unveiling a number of youth event programmes. The Wet Dock was the biggest in the country in 1842. Receiving the prestigious status helps to celebrate the dock as being one of the oldest trading ports within the UK. This recognition, when coupled with the port’s consistent ranking as being the best port for agricultural products, has helped to highlight ABP’s commitment to the whole maritime sector. The port is also blazing a trail for others, as integrated drones and AI are fused into port operations.