Picture shows how Jumbo could be transformed with restaurant

Charity North Essex Heritage wants to give the building a new lease of life and bring it back into use.

The computer generated image by Purcell architects shows the much-loved landmark with a restaurant in the tank and an exhibition space offering a unique perspective on the town’s history.

David Balcombe, director of North Essex Heritage, said: “If this project receives the funding it so clearly needs, this part of the town will be a real asset for residents and for tourists.

“Imagine walking under the Balkerne Gate, taking in the view of the new Mercury theatre with Jumbo as the backdrop.

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“Across the public space there will be a choice of places to have a coffee in the revitalised Balkerne Square, before popping to the High Street for some retail therapy.

“A trip to the top of Jumbo to take in the views and learn about Victorian Colchester, could be followed by dinner in the restaurant and then a show at the Mercury Theatre or a gig at the Arts Centre.

“A restored Jumbo would complete the picture and help make the cultural “West End” a premium gateway to Colchester and a destination to be proud of."

North Essex Heritage last month welcomed news the borough had won £18.2m funding from the Government’s Town Deal Fund.

How Jumbo could look as part of the revamp. Picture: North Essex Heritage/Purcell

The first phase of the restoration of the Victorian grade ll* listed heritage asset is set to get £1m as part of the ambitious plan submitted by We Are Colchester.

The funding would allow the charity to draw in additional funds that are needed to complete restoration of Jumbo and deal with the immediate critical repair programme that has been identified.

Simon Hall, chairman of North Essex Heritage, said: “We wanted to release this image ahead of the reopening of the Mercury Theatre and the Arts Centre to show how things could look in a few years’ time.

"This will only happen if the project receives the funding it needs, from all sources, allowing Jumbo to be part of Colchester’s exciting cultural hub.

“We are confident that with the continued support of the town and the community we will at last succeed.”