WORK is underway to finalise details for potential new tenants for a former gym.

Businesses and community groups were invited to take on Abbey Field Community Centre, off Circular Road South, four months ago.

Formerly known as the old Garrison gym, the building dates back to 1860.

It was passed from the Ministry of Defence to Colchester Council 11 years ago to be preserved for the benefit of residents.

But in 2013, the premises were destroyed by a fire just before a church group was set to move in.

An extensive restoration programme took place, with the Mercury Theatre moving in on a temporary basis in 2018.

Now the £10 million renovation is complete the theatre has left the building available to new tenants.

Abbey field Centre

Abbey field Centre

Colchester Council said the building is now suitable for a range of purposes including community meetings, conferences, childcare provision and educational classes.

The venue can cater for up to 220 people whether together in one space or within smaller zones.

Colchester Council said it will grant a lease of the premises at a peppercorn rent, with the future tenant required to carry out all necessary repairs and maintenance throughout the term of the lease.

Last October, the council invited people to express their interest in taking over the management of the community centre.

A spokesman for Colchester Council said: “We are currently working in partnership with Colchester Amphora Trading Ltd to finalise details of potential new tenants for the Abbey Field Community Centre (formally Garrison Gym).

“Further details will be released in due course.”

A spokesman for the Mercury Theatre said: "We can confirm we left the Old Garrison gym at the end of 2020 and are preparing to reopen our refurbished theatre in late Spring as part of our £10 million Mercury Rising project."