A SUPERMARKET could be built at the heart of a 1,600-home estate if plans are given the green light.

The 6,000 sq ft Co-op would serve the Chesterwell development in Mile End, Colchester, which is currently under phased construction by Mersea Homes.

Surrounded by new homes, the supermarket would be sited in Chesterwell Place, a neighbourhood centre featuring a mixture of shops, schools and offices.

Construction is scheduled to start later this year, if approval is given, and the store would open in 2021.

Nick Denny, joint chief executive for the East of England Co-op, said: “Working alongside another business which, like ourselves, have a long history in Colchester and the surrounding area, makes being a part of this development very special.

“Proud of our high standards and ethical approach to business, Chesterwell will join our family of premium format stores, featuring our multi-award winning Sourced Locally range, including many products which are grown and produced in Essex.

“We’re looking forward to being a part of this new community as it continues to develop and grow into Colchester’s flagship development.”

Work began on the Chesterwell development in 2015, with construction consisting of seven phases and 1,600 homes.

As well as the supermarket, the site will include a community centre as well as primary and secondary schools, a sports hall and a shopping centre.

Secondary school Trinity Academy, which is set to take 180 pupils per year, is expected to open in 2021.

Stuart Cock, managing director of Mersea Homes, said: “Chesterwell Place will be a high-quality hub that will deliver easily accessible community facilities and a sense of place to the development.

“The Co-op will be the ideal anchor store for us, especially as they have such a great ability in delivering high quality, fresh produce to customers.”