BUSINESS bosses have welcomed the decision to invest in “an icon of Colchester” after paying a visit to the sky-scraping landmark.

Representatives from Our Colchester Business Improvement, the organisation which represents 400 businesses in the city, recently headed to the Jumbo water tower.

The 40-metre-tall Grade II*-listed structure is set to undergo a £5million restoration and conversion as part of a project spearheaded by North Essex Heritage.

Should the funding be secured, the charity plans to convert the tower into a destination venue, restaurant, visitor experience and historical interpretation space.

Gazette:

Sam Good, manager of BID, said: "The Jumbo water tower is an iconic landmark in the Colchester skyline and holds a special place in many residents' hearts.

“The BID looks forward to seeing continued development and conservation works to Jumbo from the North Essex Heritage Trust.

“This significant investment into a historical and prominent landmark in our city centre will help boost the economy in Colchester. 

“Jumbo is an icon of Colchester and we look forward to seeing the development of Jumbo in North Essex Heritage trust’s capable hands."

David Balcombe, director of building preservation trust North Essex Heritage, said he was grateful to have the support of the Colchester Business Improvement District.

He added: “The trust and the BID share a similar ambition - to make the city a quality, exciting destination for everyone.”