COLCHESTER Council is prepared to use compulsory purchase orders to make sure its Vineyard Gate shopping scheme goes ahead.

The £65 million scheme has been on the cards for more than 15 years but no development has ever taken place.

Yesterday, Ian Anderson, who represents Fenwick’s as well as town centre landowners CBRE Global Investments and M&G Investments, told the Tollgate Village appeal council bosses are ready to use the orders, which would allow the authority to buy-up land in Osborne Street without landowners’ consent.

Mr Anderson added: “Caddick, the previous Vineyard Gate developers left, or were removed, in June/July last year.

“The council purchased Caddick’s existing interests in September and discussions were held with new developers CBRE GI and Sovereign Capital.”

In December, the parties agreed a planning performance agreement, which sets out timescales for a development.

Mr Anderson added: “That proposes the submission of an application by September of this year with a planning definition just before or just after Christmas.

“In the meantime, Colchester Council will continue to seek to purchase outstanding properties. If not, the council will support the use of compulsory purchase powers.

“Vineyard Gate will available to meet future development, is suitable and is viable.”