Next phase in redevelopment of Colchester's old bus station being discussed
Colchester Borough Council is looking at taking control of the land
Last updated 27th Jan 2021
The next steps in the redevelopment of an old bus station in Colchester are being discussed today (27 January).
The Alumno scheme at Queen Street will bring 336 student rooms, an 87-bed hotel, retail units and public open space to the area, after it was approved on planning appeal last year.
It is set to deliver a £40 million inward investment and employment boost, at a time when the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic is said to have a "significant impact" on the town centre and local businesses.
Colchester Borough Council is looking at taking control of the land so they can move the scheme forward.
They will have to temporarily remove access through the 2.6-acre Queen Street site while construction takes place.
But, the council has said statutory compensation will be provided "if mitigating steps are not sufficient".
The council's Cabinet will also be updated on progress and mitigations, and will be asked to consider written representations or objections when making its decision.
Councillor David King, portfolio holder for business and resources, said:
"The Alumno scheme is a key part of the wider St Botolph’s regeneration masterplan, which includes the previous investments at Firstsite, the Curzon cinema and the creative business centre at 37 Queen Street.
"As well as the immediate and direct benefits of the student accommodation and hotel developments, the scheme will provide a powerful catalyst to other, adjacent schemes, such as the proposed grow-on space for creative and digital businesses and digital working hub in the former bus garage.
"And through the increased footfall and vitality generated, it should help stimulate investment in the nearby Priory Walk shopping centre and help sustain other retail and hospitality businesses deeply impacted by the current crisis.
"The scheme will also deliver up to 60 long-term jobs and 300 jobs during the construction phase."
Cllr King continued:
"This will be hugely helpful, when so many jobs are being lost and when we know the economic shocks of the pandemic will be with us for years to come.
"These students, their families and new visitors will bring between £2m-£3m a year into the local economy.
"There have been understandable concerns about regeneration on this site but done well there are benefits also.
"Both the Alumno and grow-on scheme will significantly improve access to, and visibility of, the significant historic assets nearby, most notably the Roman Wall, in turn improving our tourism offer.
"Landmark developments up and down the country have been through a tough time in the last few years, even before the pandemic struck, but in that period the council has continued to invest in the St Botolph’s Quarter and is currently pursuing even greater investment through the Town Deal fund, which will enable big improvements to be made across the whole town.
"I look forward to the development as the next significant step in the regeneration of the St Botolph's area but regret the inconvenience construction will cause for some nearby residents and businesses.
"We are looking at the concerns this raises.
"If Cabinet agrees we proceed after careful review of objections and representations, it will be alive to the benefits to footfall and vibrancy, to businesses and the many they employ at this terrible time.
"And we will be determined to ensure those affected are given help with mitigation, alternative access and statutory compensation."