THE next phase of a huge revamp of Colchester’s city centre will get underway next month - breathing new life into an area described as "grotty, grim and full of bins".
Plans for the redevelopment of St Nicholas Square, just off Colchester High Street, have long been in the pipeline but are set to finally started in a matter of weeks.
The £1.6 million project will see the plot pedestrianised and reimagined into a “vibrant public space”, with new trees also being planted.
Yew trees in the area had previously been cut down and removed as they were no longer in good condition and couldn’t be pruned or repositioned.
Fresh parking restrictions are set to be implemented at the site from next month with the scheme, which was delayed last year, beginning “shortly after”.
City centre councillor Mark Goacher said the plans are a “hugely welcome development” for the area.
He added: “The St Nicholas Square area has cried out for improvement for years and is currently grotty, grim and full of bins and a crumbling wall.
“But not for long as the changes will mean a fresh open area for people to socialise, and which will complement the excellent pubs and restaurants nearby.
“While I have massive concerns about what they want to do with Trinity Churchyard, the St Nicholas changes are a very welcome step.”
The revamp of St Nicholas Square is just one of many major projects getting underway this year.
Further investment is being ploughed into the already-underway digital hub in Queen Street, which broke ground at the start of the year.
The new Digital Working Hub will serve as a collaborative space for digital artists, entrepreneurs, and tech creatives in the area and is expected to be completed early next year.
Elsewhere, £1.3 million is being invested in three Youth Service schemes, including The Town House, Stanway Youth Centre and Highwoods Youth Centre, while approximately £600,000 will be spent on St Trinity Square.
The council is also putting about £500,000 into part of the new Lexden Gardens housing scheme at the former Essex County Hospital site.
Government funding will go towards the front garden area, which will be open to the public.
It will be surrounded by 120 homes, with work anticipated to start in spring and finish by the end of 2026.
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