Plans unveiled for new Colchester public space

Residents are being asked to share their views via an online survey

Author: Arlen JamesPublished 17th Feb 2021

Colchester Borough Council is looking for feedback on initial proposals for a new public space in St Nicholas Square.

According the to the authority, the plans include a "flexible and attractive" area, with more space for seating, market stalls and outdoor events.

The project is due to be completed later this year and will be funded by the Accelerated Town Deal Fund.

Councillor David King, Portfolio Holder for Business and Resources, said: "I am looking forward to the opportunity to present initial plans for what promises to be a very exciting new public space. This investment will be a real boost for local retail and hospitality businesses and I am extremely pleased work on this project is moving forward.

"I would encourage local stakeholders and interested parties to join the webinar to hear more about the proposal for a safe and vibrant social hub in the heart of our town centre."

The project is being designed by local company, HAT Projects, which will present the plans and answer questions via an online webinar on 2 March.

Hana Loftus, director at the company, said: "We have been working hard, behind the scenes, with local businesses and user groups to develop designs that are both practical and beautiful.

"We now really want to hear what the wider community thinks – and we’ll then be refining the designs in response to feedback.

"St Nicholas’ Square is a wonderful and historic space but it has not been used to its full potential for some time, so we are excited to help it become a vibrant space for the future."

The online survey is running until 19 March.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Greatest Hits Radio app.