Town 'first in UK to launch free digital binoculars'

People will be able to see what Suffolk looked like in the past

Residents will have the chance to go back in time and see what parts of a town used to look like after plans for six digital binoculars were approved.

The technology allows users to view Ipswich during the Victorian era and was funded through the government's Towns Fund.

The free, immersive binoculars were set to appear at heritage locations including Christchurch Park, Cornhill, Custom House, the Buttermarket, and Ipswich Waterfront.

Ipswich Borough Council said: "Ipswich will be the first town in the UK to launch this technology freely to the public in a street-based setting, combining Victorian nostalgia with state-of-the-art innovation."

One of the locations for the binoculars will be the Waterfront

Unlike other digital innovations such as AR trails, these binoculars require no app, no smartphone, and no digital know-how.

Visitors of all ages and abilities could simply look through the eyepiece to enjoy a different view of Ipswich.

Initially, users will be able to see and explore how Ipswich at these locations appeared in the 1890s, with future releases of additional content planned to follow.

Councillor Neil MacDonald, leader of Ipswich Borough Council, said the "landmark project" would "establish Ipswich as a leader in the realm of digital innovation, heritage and engagement".

"Whether you're nine or ninety, tech-savvy or not, this experience is for you," he added.

"We're proud that Ipswich will be the first town in the country to freely offer this inclusive, dynamic attraction - and it's just the beginning of our commitment to innovation that benefits everyone."

The weatherproof binoculars could be used 24/7 with two eyepieces - one at adult height and one for children or wheelchair users.

Nina Cunningham, speaking on behalf of the council, said: "It's about footfalls and dwell time and a reason to come and visit Ipswich – we think this will be a real feather in our cap."

Jack Norris, director of Zubr - a UK-based immersive technology studio - which developed the idea, said: "We wanted to create something magical, meaningful and easy to use - technology that 'disappears' so people can just enjoy the experience."

This first instalment will launch this Summer 2025.