All the new places joining Colchester's Northern Gateway Leisure Park

But what exactly will the vast complex, set to be located near Colchester United's Jobserve Community Stadium, have to offer when it opens in 2024?

Earlier this week Turnstone Estates, the development company spearheading the ambitious £65milion project, announced a string of exciting new additions.

They also revealed some businesses which had already signed onto the initiative had reaffirmed their commitment by agreeing to expand on their initial plans.

So, here are some of the latest leisure and hospitality establishments to join the Northern Gateway’s ever-growing line-up.

Cineworld

Cineworld has officially been added to the Northern Gateway Leisure Park’s growing line-up of facilities and businesses after years of anticipation.

The entertainment company, the world’s second biggest cinema chain, will manage 12 screens featuring Superscreen and 4DXcapabilites.

The cinema site will also play home to a large foyer which will accommodate a Starbucks coffee shop area.

Kevin Frost, property director Cineworld UK, said: “Our new cinema will feature state of the art technology aimed at providing an excellent viewer experience.

“The response to the launch of the latest Bond movie highlights that the general public still crave for the big screen.”

Travelodge

Travelodge bosses have signed a contract agreeing to expand on plans to build an 80-room hotel on the site, instead choosing to launch a 90-room facility.  

Tony O'Brien, Travelodge's UK development director, said: "Travelodge is delighted to be part of this exciting, new leisure development.

“The site is in a perfect location to serve both Colchester and the wider area, via the adjacent A12.”

Wendy’s and Greggs

American burger joint Wendy’s and British institution Greggs have also been added to the leisure park’s list of facilities and businesses.

The fast-food outlet and much-loved bakery brand will each boast a drive-thru on the site, which will encompass a whopping 200,000 square-feet.

Chris Goldsmith, managing director of Turnstone Estates, said: “These signings reflect occupational demand for this state-of-the art leisure scheme.

“Despite the recent pandemic which created uncertainty in the sector, we are delighted to welcome Wendy’s and Greggs to the line-up.”

In addition to the above, the complex has already secured a 20-lane bowling alley from Hollywood Bowl and an indoor golf centre courtesy of Puttstars.

Jump Street will also be opening a climbing centre on the site and agreements are in place for Fastned to provide eight high-power electric vehicle charging bays.

The scheme, the building for which is set to get underway in the New Year, will also include seven restaurants, a high-quality, landscaped piazza and parking for 750 cars.

READ MORE: Everything we know about the Northern Gateway development in Colchester

Sue Lissimore, deputy leader of Colchester Council responsible for resources, said: “We are delighted these brands are committed to coming to Colchester.

“This progress furthers our ambition to transform the Northern Gateway into a hub for improved wellbeing, physical activity, jobs, housing and renewable energy.

“It is a key part of our commitment to boosting the local economy and helping our borough recover following the impact of Covid-19.”