Essex County Council ensure a bus stop is coming in Autumn

The multi-million-pound Northern Gateway Project has already seen big names such as Hollywood Bowl, Slim Chickens, Greggs and Wendy's open. 

But residents have bemoaned the lack of options when it comes to accessing the site without driving. 

Colchester’s Park and Ride parking is the closest stop to the Northern Gateway site, but this is a 10-minute walk from the centre of the project.

Closest - Colchester's Park and Ride is the closest stop away - a ten minute walk (Image: Credited)

Concerns have also been raised about wheelchairs and people with pushchairs having to cross the busy A12 slip road to get to the site.  

As a result a funding for a new bus service has been secured and additional stops for the Park and Ride will be added. 

A spokesman for Essex County Council said: “We have secured funding for a new ‘leisure time’ bus service and are currently speaking with the developer about bus stop facilities within the Northern Gateway Leisure Park.

“Additionally, Colchester Park and Ride services will stop in Axial Way, close to the Northern Gateway Leisure Park, from next autumn. This is part of our policy to ensure stops are as close as possible to attractor locations.

Opposite - The Northern Gateway Sports Park is just across from the main development (Image: Credited)

“Collectively, these measures will help ensure all residents can enjoy comprehensive and sustainable access to this major new leisure area.”

Mile End ward councillor, David King said: “I have urged Essex County council colleagues for a new bus stop which is close to the site.

“There is now a bus stop short of the roundabout on Axial Way. Bus operators and park and ride need to ensure they adjust their schedules as soon as possible."

Other brands set to open at the site include Kervan Kitchen, El Guaca Mexican restaurant, Kaspa’s Desserts, Joyato Sushi and Grill, buffet company Nines and Taste of Italy.

A Cineworld cinema is also planned.