Colchester applies for city status

The town wants to become a city as part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations

Author: Abi SimpsonPublished 8th Dec 2021
Last updated 8th Dec 2021

Colchester has officially applied to be made a city as part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

The Borough Council has said on its website that it has secured the confidence of organisations and businesses, and the pride of our rapidly growing, diverse people and communities, connecting and working in partnership.

After the announcement, we spoke to Darius Laws, their portfolio holder for economy, business and heritage. He says, " It's a chance to recognise who we are as a people and our values. We are aspirational, we are open and tolerant. It offers us an actual tangible opportunity to welcome more investment and tourism.

Once the capital of Roman Britain, the town has always been a centre for commerce. Councillor Laws says it is this mix of heritage and business that will push their application over the line.

"Colchester has got the most amazing cultural assets. We've got the national musuem of the year in Firstsite, we've got the castle and museum which itself was built on a Roman Temple. We've also got the Colchester arts centre and Mercury Theatre.

"It's not just about these institutions either, it's also about the fact that we're a city-minded, international people and a great place to do business.

"It's exciting opportunity for Colchester and I hope, fingers crossed, we're successful", he adds.

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