HUMAN remains have been uncovered during the million-pound redevelopment works in Colchester's city centre. 

St Nicholas Square is set to be transformed as part of a £1.6million overhaul to provide space for bars, cafes and restaurants in the area to have outside seating. 

Old gravestones, which were in the former church's grounds, are being removed and repositioned.

Colchester Council has confirmed bones were found and are being dealt with the "utmost respect". 

Ward councillor Mark Goacher said he had been informed "no human remains were under St Nicholas Square."

He said: "I was informed they had all been relocated to Colchester cemetery in the 1950s.

"A barrier went up to prevent the public from seeing what is going on.

"It seems that the Town Deal Board have been working with Colchester Archaeological Trust and so must have known for some time that remains were still on site. 

"As an elected ward councillor, I do not appreciate being misled.

"I am in favour of the improvements to St Nicholas Square however all of this makes me doubt what I’m being told about the more controversial Trinity Churchyard plans."

Blocked - the new fence installed by the building worksBlocked - the new fence installed by the building works (Image: Mark Goacher)

A spokesperson for Colchester Council said: “During the ongoing redevelopment of St Nicholas Square, contractors have uncovered human remains.

"Colchester Archaeological Trust is on-site to ensure that human remains are carefully documented, analysed, and respectfully reburied. 

“Colchester’s rich history means we’re always mindful of the potential for archaeological discoveries.

"It’s important to note that the remains were not recovered from a burial but are disturbed remains which have been removed from their original location over the centuries.

"This is common in all graveyards and the remains are treated with the same respect as if they were encountered in a burial.  

"Archaeologists will work to learn more about these individuals and their lives, adding to our understanding of the city’s past."

The spokesman said the remains will be re-interred at Colchester Cemetery "in a designated area with a Christian service, reflecting the known religious background."

They added: "This practice aligns with our previous handling of human remains found on Colchester sites. 

“We remain committed to preserving Colchester’s heritage while developing St Nicholas Square for future generations.”