Lord-Lieutenant of Suffolk officially opens the new Ipswich ambulance hub
Date: 14 October 2025The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) has officially opened its new state-of-the-art ambulance hub in Ipswich, marking a major milestone in the Trust’s commitment to improving emergency care infrastructure.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Suffolk, Clare, Countess of Euston, formally opened the facility by cutting the ribbon in front of invited guests, including Ipswich MP Jack Abbott.
This £12.81 million development on Ransomes Industrial Estate has been purpose-built to enhance operational efficiency, support staff wellbeing, and advance EEAST’s sustainability goals.
Key features of the new hub include:
- A fully integrated vehicle repair workshop and dedicated vehicle preparation area
- Comprehensive “make ready” services to ensure ambulances are cleaned, restocked, and maintained to the highest standards
- A two-storey car park with capacity for 78 cars and 29 ambulances, with scope for future expansion
- Over 390 m² of solar panels (PV panels), generating clean energy and expected to save £10,500 annually – totalling £315,700 over their lifetime
Now fully operational, the hub serves as a base for approximately 100 staff who have relocated from the previous site on Woodbridge Road East.
Funding for the project includes £10 million from the Department of Health and Social Care, with EEAST contributing £2.81 million. An additional £109,000 was secured from Great British Energy to support the solar panel installation.
Sustainability is a central focus of the development. The hub features smart technologies and on-site renewable energy generation, supporting
EEAST’s ambition to achieve net zero carbon emissions.
Staff wellbeing has also been prioritised, with the inclusion of quiet rooms, relaxation areas, and a dedicated wellbeing garden.
Neill Moloney, Chief Executive of EEAST, 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.”
Kerry Gaskin, the Local Area Manager at the Hub, 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.”
Photo of the ribbon cutting by Arleen Bathgate Photography
