Added: 23 January 2018
Ipswich Building Society launches new flagship Ipswich Branch
Mutual House bucks the trend as the Society commits to the High Street
Ipswich Building Society has opened the doors to its new flagship branch in Ipswich town centre. Mutual House, the new premises at Princes Street replaces the Society’s former Sailmakers Shopping Centre branch, where it had been based for almost thirty years.
In launching its latest branch, soon to be followed by investment in new premises in Woodbridge, Ipswich Building Society is defying the norm by actively supporting face-to-face branch services. 22 bank and building society branch closures have been announced in Suffolk over the last 12 months.
Originally built in 1901 by Parr’s Bank, Mutual House has been extensively renovated. The Society has carried out works to preserve the building’s original ceiling and unveiled the marble Parr’s Bank plaque on the exterior. The stonework has been cleaned and repairs were made to the original weathervane at the top of the three story building.
Ipswich Building Society CEO, Richard Norrington, explains: “The feedback we have received from our members indicates there is very much still a place for our over the counter services. We know we must consider the ‘branch of the future’, so we have taken the opportunity to invest in our network with new and improved locations in Ipswich and Woodbridge. Having purchased and renovated Mutual House, our flagship premises will have town centre frontage and flexible space to extend our services. We’re looking forward to hosting our popular member events and financial education sessions in-branch and welcoming our community partners too.”
Chairman, Alan Harris, added: “In the last year, one in three members visited at least one of our branches. Our face-to-face service will remain a key priority for us as we continue to operate in the best interest of our members.”
One of the first members to visit the new premises was Mr Elmer, who has been a member of the Society since childhood. Commenting on the new branch, Mr Elmer said: “I visit the town centre branch most days, as it’s important for me to have someone to speak to face-to-face. I’m really pleased that the Society has opened its Mutual House branch, it’s a spacious building with great facilities for member events.”
On Saturday 27 January, the Society is inviting people to enjoy a day of celebrations at Mutual House. At 10am the Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) will be performing a selection of songs from their previous performances culminating with a Wizard of Oz showcase, which they are performing at the Seckford Theatre on the 16th & 17th February. At midday, there will be food tasting from the Suffolk Food Hall and the celebrations will culminate with an hour of songs by the St Elizabeth’s Hospice Community Choir at 2pm. Members and visitors will also have the chance to enter a prize draw to win a £500 travel voucher, donated by Fred. Olsen Travel.