The iconic Embassy Suite building in Balkerne Hill has had many uses over the years, most recently as a Chinese buffet.

However most people in Colchester will remember it during its heyday, when it was one of the most popular nightspots in the town.

Sadly the building has laid empty for several years, but there has been a lot of movement on its future over recent months.

Ian Saunders wanted to turn it into Solo Summers, an adult cabaret venue in honour of his late wife, Solo Saunders.

He received planning permission to convert the premises, however the plans fell at the final hurdle when Colchester Council’s licensing committee turned down his bid for a sex entertainment venue licence following concerns from residents.

But now Mr Saunders has returned with a new application to turn it into an entertainment venue, without the sex venue licence in place.

A planning report says the new venue would host live bands, DJs, comedy nights, cabaret, LGBTQ+ events, single’s and couple’s nights and family events.

The premises would also be available for hire for corporate events, Christmas parties, wedding receptions and available free of charge to voluntary groups.

So what do you think?

Do you support the idea of the Embassy becoming an entertainment venue again? 

Vote in our poll here: