One of Ipswich’s most iconic landmarks, Electric House, has been bought by local property investor and developer, Christchurch Holland.
Martin Holland, Managing Director, is an Ipswich lad through and through. He and his team have a real passion for Ipswich and are proud to now be the owner of one of the town’s most important buildings.
“Ipswich has a range of fantastic architecture and I am really proud to now own one of our landmark buildings”, says Martin Holland, “As a young boy, passing Radio Orwell which used to be based here, I never imagined I would own such an iconic building.”
Christchurch Holland previously has invested in property throughout the country but is now keen to focus on Ipswich. “Our team are looking to prioritise Ipswich with our investments,” explains Martin. “High streets and town centres everywhere are facing a challenging time but we believe Ipswich town centre can be vibrant and interesting. Now is the time for Ipswich to fly.”
The building currently houses Haart Estate Agent on the ground floor, with 14 apartments on the upper levels.
One of the most recognisable buildings in Ipswich, based at the top of Lloyds Avenue, on Crown Street, it has had some interesting tenants over the years. Built in 1933, the Art Deco style frontage shows its original use.
“If you look up when next passing you can see the crest and letters IESC, standing for Ipswich Electricity Supply Centre,” explains Martin, “which is where the name Electric House comes from. It was opened in 1939 as the service centre for what later became Eastern Electricity”.
The engraved banner at the top of the building states “Light Power Heat” and despite the different businesses and functions the building has had over the years is still referred to as Electric House.
In the 1960s the building became a corset factory. In 1975, the town’s first commercial radio station, Radio Orwell, opened. In 1993 local solicitors Graham and Oldham, now Ashtons, and The Futon Company moved in.
Five years ago, the building was renovated and now houses 14 apartments, with an estate agent on the ground floor. It even boasts a rooftop terrace with fantastic views across the town from the top of Lloyds Avenue.
Martin is determined that going forward Ipswich will be the priority for him and his team. “If I am going to spend money, I want to spend it in Ipswich. Supporting local people, in my home town,” said Martin, “Ipswich is a fantastic town, full of history and full of potential”.
“My great – grandfather was Mayor of Ipswich in the 1930s when Electric House was being built” explains Martin. “I hope he would be proud that Christchurch Holland is the new owner.”
Electric House was sold through Goldings Auctions with the legalities completed by Smith and Co Solicitors. Martin notes “The team at Smith and Co were brilliant and I would like to thank them for their support and advice”.
