ESSENTIAL repairs have begun to one of Colchester’s historic landmarks.

The £25,000 work on a wall in the grounds of St Botolph’s Priory was commissioned by Colchester Council and English Heritage, which both manage the site.

It was agreed the work should be completed after a survey of the wall revealed it was in need of maintenance.

Specialist building company, Bakers of Danbury, successfully tendered for the work.

Tina Dopson, councillor responsible for communities, said: “Colchester has a strong identity through its rich history, and it is paramount we preserve our wonderful landmarks.

“We have worked hard in order to enable this project to happen, and I feel it is a fantastic result for the town.”

Nick Barlow, councillor in charge of economic development, culture and tourism, said the project would strengthen the council’s partnership with English Heritage and help the regeneration of the town centre, as well as bring in more tourists.

He added: “It is a quintessential part of Colchester, and is a place both residents, and visitors to Colchester, deserve to see maintained, for the enjoyment of future generations.”