THE building which was once home to a Colchester milkshake bar remains empty more than a year on from its closure. 

Shakeaway, in Sir Isaac's Walk, closed in 2023.

But with the unit still empty 12 months on it has sparked questions about what could fill it. 

The 692-square-foot building was previously listed for sale by Hair & Son's on Rightmove for £310,000.

When looking at the building online it states the shop is 'not currently available', meaning the building 'may be sold or temporarily removed from the market'.

Richard Kirky-Taylor, Castle ward councillor for Colchester, said: "It is a constant shame when businesses move out of the city centre but it is a combination of the cost of living crisis and a lot of the problems that the High Street have as they have to compete against online businesses.

"I hope the new Government does something fairly dramatic and revolutionary if they want to succeed in doing the past 16 years of austerity.

"I doubt they will but I hope I'm wrong."

He hopes another business moves in to encourage more people to use the city centre and what is has to offer.

He said: "I'd like to see anything that is able to actually bring people into the city centre to take over this lot.

"I'm not sure what would be best for bringing people in but that is what the focus should be - in restoring the city centre to its vibrant past."

A spokesman for Hair & Son previously said: "Hair & Son are delighted to offer this freehold lock-up retail shop for sale just off Colchester High Street on Sir Isaacs Walk.

"The premises benefit from the space being shared over the ground and first floor, a three-phase electricity supply and air conditioning.

"[There is] easy access to Colchester Town railway station providing access to London Liverpool Street.

"Local occupiers include H&M, Trespass and a range of other national, regional and local retailers."

Shakeaway and Hair & Son were approached for comment but did not respond in time of the paper going to print.