A major development comprising flats, offices and restaurants could be on the cards for the Hythe.

The mixed-use development would include 153 apartments, children's play areas and piazzas. Also included in the plans is a riverside cycle and footpath route.

Lansley Ltd has applied for planning permission for the work at the Ballantyne Centre and land off Hawkins Road, Colchester.

The majority of the area is made up of a former printing works, which has been empty for more than two years.

This and a smaller area of derelict industrial land would be demolished and decontaminated to make way for the development.

A report presented to Colchester Council's planning committee, which will discuss the plans on Thursday, says the apartments would be constructed in seven blocks ranging from three to seven storeys in height.

Shops, offices and restaurants will occupy the ground floor of the riverside buildings, providing a range of jobs for residents in the surrounding areas.

Published Monday May 24, 2004

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