PLANS to turn the old base of one of Colchester’s most historic employers into 130 new homes have been revealed.
MAN Energy Solutions has launched a public consultation on proposals to create a new estate at the old home of its Colchester factory, formerly Paxman Diesels, off Port Lane in the Hythe.
The plans would see up to 130 homes built on the site, which closed earlier this year after 150 years due to a restructure of the business and the impact of Covid and Brexit on the German firm’s operations.
The closure led to the loss of 70 jobs and sparked a petition to try and save the iconic factory.
The homes will be a mix of one, two, three and four-bed houses and apartments, a certain percentage of which will be affordable, while open space will be created.
Access to the new estate would be provided from Port Lane.
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Louise Durose, general counsel for MAN Energy Solutions, said: “Following the closure of the Colchester facility we instructed a professional team led by Avison Young to advise on the site’s disposal.
“We have been advised that the sale of the site with planning permission for new homes is the optimal strategy for the business and provides the most appropriate use for the site in the context of it forming part of the draft allocation ‘Land at 02 August 2021 Page 2 of 2 Port Lane’ (Policy EC3)for 130 dwellings in Section 2 of Colchester Borough’s Council Local Plan.
“Prior to submitting an outline planning application for the site later this summer, we are undertaking pre-application consultation on the plans and welcome feedback from the local community.”
There are plans to celebrate the site’s industrial heritage through the production of renewable energy from outdoor fitness equipment with plaques also installed detailing the site’s history.
Other ideas include creating public art from old engines and installing a special drinking fountain.
More than 2,000 letters have been sent to nearby residents urging them to visit the consultation website.
The consultation runs until August 23 and residents can email contact@portlaneconsultation.co.uk to join an online webinar.
To view the plans, visit www.portlaneconsultation.co.uk.
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