PLANS for a £70milllion retail and leisure park in Stanway have sensationally been given the green light.
The Tollgate Partnership had their bid for the development turned down twice by Colchester Council.
But the Secretary of State has reversed the decision after an appeal - meaning the plans, which include a multiplex cinema, can go ahead.
In his report, the secretary said the development would not have a huge impact on the town centre and would add nearly £17million to the local economy.
Delighted - Tollgate Partnership director Jayne Gee and Daniel Watts
Jayne Gee and Daniel Watts of Tollgate Partnership Limited said: "We are delighted and relieved that, after many years of hard work, we can bring Tollgate Village to Colchester."
"This is a good day for our town and we want to thank the huge number of people who have supported us; it means the world."
“We hope the next phase of the planning process will proceed quickly and efficiently in order for us to deliver Tollgate Village.”
MP Priti Patel also hailed the news.
She said: "This is fantastic news for Stanway and this part of Essex.
"Hundreds of new jobs are now set to be created and we will get to benefit from new facilities and investment in Stanway.
"I have supported the Tollgate Partnership throughout this process and congratulate them on securing planning permission.
"They have faced a protracted and difficult process by Colchester Council who have delayed this scheme and the economic benefits it will bring.”
Stanway and Pyefleet councillor Kevin Bentley (Con) said: "I am thrilled and delighted by this decision.
"I have always maintained that Tollgate Village would be a tremendous boost to our economy.
"With our borough growing we need developments that gives our residents the right facilities in the right places and Tollgate Village provides this.”
Borough Councillor Jackie MacLean said:“I have been supportive of the Tollgate Village proposals and this decision is good news for Stanway.
"Independent decision makers have now approved both Stane Park and Tollgate Village.
"Throughout this process we have seen double-standards from the council and they should be ashamed of their time-wasting ploys.
"This is a major investment to the local economy and community.”
For reaction from Colchester Council click here.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel