Fears Trinity Square plan could cause anti-social behaviour

Colchester Council is hoping to open up the historic city centre grounds of Holy Trinity Church and transform it into a “green oasis”.

As part of the plan, funded by a portion of the £19.2 million Town Deal cash, the railings surrounding the church could be removed.

It has led to strong criticism from the city’s High Steward Sir Bob Russell, who fears it could create a space for anti-social behaviour to occur.

Green oasis - Holy Trinity Church's graveyard could be transformed under the plans (Image: Newsquest)

“The removal of railings either side of the Grade I listed Saxon tower will create open spaces where anti-social behaviour could happen 24/7," he said.

"This could include urinating, defecating, fornicating and drug taking.

“The churchyards at St Mary on the Walls and St Peter’s are closed most of the time because of anti-social behaviour.

“But, totally ignoring this, the council is in cahoots with the Town Deal board to create areas either side of the tower where anti-social behaviour could occur.”

Blueprints - HAT Projects' proposed scheme for Trinity Square (Image: HAT Projects)

Sir Bob added: “I find it astonishing that removing the railings is even being discussed.”

Mark Cory, deputy leader of the council, said the Trinity Square project has been “carefully designed with several security measures in mind”.

He said some of Sir Bob’s points are “valid concerns”, adding: “I will commit to taking those away and talking them through with the project team.”

The deputy leader continued: “The changes to the layout around the church will mean only a small section of land will be publicly accessible 24/7. The rest will be locked overnight.

Concern - Sir Bob Russell fears people could have sex, defecate and take drugs in the churchyard (Image: Newsquest)

Response - deputy leader of Colchester Council Mark Cory (Image: Newsquest)

“Other churchyards in similar town/city centre locations, for example St Stephen’s in Ipswich, have been relandscaped to remove their railings entirely and they do not have a problem with anti-social behaviour.”

Mr Cory said additional lighting will be installed at the site and the main part of the churchyard will be locked at night if the plans are completed. 

“Re-opening the area around Colchester’s oldest tower will allow it to be better seen and understood for its heritage importance and create more accessible space for all,” he added.