THE future of a much-discussed plot of Colchester land about the size of 20 football pitches is a step closer to being revealed after it has finally been sold.

The land along Colne Bank Avenue, close to Cymbeline Way has been sold following months of uncertainty.

The land, located north of the Avenue of Remembrance, Colne Bank Avenue, was separated into two lots, equated to a value of around £1 million.

The two lots were sold for £650,000 and £350,000 respectively, however, the future of the site remains unknown.

The land sits on a floodplain and a flood meadow which means any development would be problematic, with concerns previously raised it would take away the natural beauty of the vast space.

Sir Bob Russell, High Steward of Colchester, said: “The ideal scenario is that the land remains undeveloped, for all we know some benefactor could have bought it with generous intentions.

Interested - Sir Bob Russell is interested to see what will now happen with the landInterested - Sir Bob Russell is interested to see what will now happen with the land (Image: Credited) “It’s important that the council uphold the status of the land, but until we know who has purchased it, we can’t be too sure.

“Since the land went up, the new government has made it clear that they will rip up the planning protections and that is the concern.

“It will be interesting to see if the land will continue to be used for the circus and for the fairs.”

Castle ward councillor Mark Goacher said he hopes the site will not be built on despite the sale.

“My hope is that it remains as an open space and used as either a nature reserve or for farming," said Mr Goacher.

“It shouldn’t be built on and is an area which is used as a natural space and somewhere that the public frequently use.”

Colchester Council said any future use of the land will be "carefully evaluated through the proper planning processes".

A spokesman added: "Currently, the land is designated Public Open Space with significant constraints, including flood risk zones and a scheduled ancient monument.

“We are committed to protecting precious open spaces and avoiding development on environmentally significant land, ensuring these areas are preserved for the enjoyment and well-being of future generations.”