A blueprint paving the way for the redevelopment of one of Colchester's most historic industrial sites has been drawn up by planners.

Shape of things to come? Council planners have drawn up a guidance blueprint for developers and the public, should parts of the Paxman site (above) be sold off. (35554-33)

Colchester Council has outlined draft proposals which could change the face of the Paxman Diesels site in New Town.

Giant disused workshops and factory buildings would be flattened to make way for new homes and business properties. The land, off Port Lane, is also earmarked for a 330-pupil school.

The Victorian factory was built between 1873 and 1902. At its height Paxman's, a world leader in power and engineering, had 2,500 staff, making it the town's biggest employer.

But operations have been slimmed down over the years. Now about 100 people work at the plant, which is owned by German diesel giant Man B&W.

A Man B&W spokesman said: "Following reorganisation of the UK business, Man B&W Diesel are working with Colchester Council's planning office to agree some features that would, in the council's opinion, be desirable in any future redevelopment of the unused part of the site."

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Published Thursday, February 10, 2005

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