COLCHESTER Council has quelled fears of a beauty spot being developed saying it would be unacceptable to do so.

The assurance follows a plea from Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell who raised serious concerns with the council’s chief executive Adrian Pritchard after seeing an estate agent’s board up.

He feared it was an indication the prized land at Abbey Field will be sold.

The site is just yards away from the remains of Britain’s only known Roman chariot racing circus which Sir Bob describes as an integral part of Colchester’s unique tourist appeal.

He said: “We have more Roman history to see than anywhere else in the country.

“To allow development of the whole site would be a serious intrusion of the integrity of Abbey Field and would diminish the setting of the Roman Circus.

“However, I recognise it would be difficult to argue against any development, but what takes place shouldn’t be higher than that of the recently demolished Arena building.

“That should be what determines the future of this site, not the height of the new flats built opposite on the corner of Napier Road and Circular Road East, or elsewhere overlooking Abbey Field.”

In 2015, the Arena Leisure Club, as it had become, was closed, and the building was destined for demolition.

Decades prior it was a postwar NAAFI club for soldiers, one of eight built across the country designed by Ernest Joseph.

It is this oasis which keen history buff Sir Bob is adamant must not be compromised.

But a spokesman for Colchester Council said there are no developments earmarked for the protected brownfield site.

He said: “There are no proposals, nor would it be acceptable, to develop on Abbey Field.

“The former Arena site is brownfield land that is adjacent to Abbey Field, which forms part of the Garrison Conservation Area.

“This land has a relevant policy in the adopted Local plan, reflecting a long-standing intention to redevelop the site.

“The northern corner of the site is a scheduled monument, as part of the former Roman Circus.

“It’s therefore essential any development proposal excludes this area and respects the setting of the monument, the character and appearance of the wider Garrison Conservation Area.”

He added: “There are no current planning applications concerning the Arena site.

“Any proposals will be subject to extensive consultation with the public and statutory bodies including Historic England to ensure the nationally important Roman Circus is safeguarded for future generations.”