NO damage will be done to Colchester’s town wall as part of plans to build an access ramp to a student flats scheme, the developer behind the plans has promised.

Alumno, which is set to build 336 student flats, shops, a Travelodge and open space on land off Queen Street, has submitted a planning application for the new ramp to be built linking Priory Street car park.

Under the terms of the planning approval, the development can only go ahead with ramp plans in place. Campaigners have raised concerns about the impact the proposals would have on the town wall.

But Alumno says no damage will be done to the Roman Wall in Priory Street and said there would be no direct impact on other newer parts of the wall.

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Managing director David Campbell said: “We can categorically state that the application does not result in the alteration of the Roman Wall.

"The proposals affect the old theatre wall, which is currently abutted by the old bus station building.

"The opening is located in the bus station, or former Theatre Yard, wall.

"Great care has been taken therefore to ensure that there are no direct impacts on the above or below ground parts of the adjacent historic town wall.

"It is also not entirely new.

"It is located at an existing opening which is being widened in consultation and subsequent formal agreement with Historic England and Colchester Council.

“The principle of putting an access ramp in this location was agreed as a part of the planning permission.

"The design approach is fully in line fully with the feedback, and indeed the wishes, of campaigners after an extensive debate.”

Alumno has also confirmed discussions are ongoing to provide residents with temporary access to car parking off Queen Street.

Earlier this year Colchester Council approved using special legal appropriation powers on the strip of land off Queen Street to get plans moving.

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Businesses in the area had raised concerns about the alternative loading bays provided.

Mr Campbell said: “The council looks to ensure there is sufficient loading bays for businesses to use and during the construction period there will be three loading areas in reasonable proximity to the properties at the northern end of Queen Street, one at Culver Street East, one on Queen Street and another proposed at Lewis Gardens.

"Discussions are also being progressed with Firstsite in respect of providing a temporary access route to the car parking area for residents, so the car park can continue to be used.

“If any businesses have specific concerns they are welcome to contact the council’s consultants, Newsteer who will be happy to address specific queries.”