East Colchester will end up a "mess" unless a complete design framework is created for the dock area, it is claimed.

Colchester Council consulted widely before drawing up its community assessment for the Hythe.

The aim was to collect business's and residents' views over regeneration plans put forward by the Colne Harbour Project Group.

But it has now been claimed that planners should take a huge step back.

Tory Tony Glover, who represents Colchester at Essex County Council, said a more comprehensive plan was needed.

Speaking at full council in Chelmsford Mr Glover said: "There has been a proposal put out to consultation for some of this area. It was originally agreed that there should be a complete design strategy."

He called on the county council to help Colchester Council to create a prime regeneration site in the town.

But Paul McCabe, Colchester Council's regeneration co-ordinator, said the consultation over regeneration had been complete and far reaching.

He said the council had set up a new body called the East Colchester Commission to look at the issues involved in regenerating the dock area.

Mr McCabe added that county council involvement in the project was being actively encouraged, especially on transport issues.

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