RESIDENTS living on a deprived estate targeted for multi-million pound funding will be consulted on how to improve the area during a new survey.

Those living in Greenstead, Colchester, will be asked to share what they believe is good about the estate after it was awarded the groundbreaking funding.

The Government awarded Colchester £19.2 million as part of the Towns Fund in 2021 - £6 million of which has been earmarked to make improvements in Greenstead.

A project called ‘Heart of Greenstead’ has now launched, asking people how they think this money should be spent.

It is hoped the government will give final sign-off on this funding in the summer but, at this stage, there are no confirmed plans or designs in place.

However, if the funding bid is successful, the scheme could include updated community facilities and up to 139 new or refurbished homes.

Read more: 'Tremendous news' - Greenstead cash boost praised but some residents are sceptical

Colchester Council leader Paul Dundas said: “This is an exciting project for Greenstead, but to be successful it has to be developed with the community rather than have anything imposed.

“So, we would like local people to share their thoughts and ideas to help us understand feelings towards the overall scheme, to ensure we get a plan everyone can get behind.”

Pam Green, chief operating officer at North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group, added: “Along with Colchester Council, we are keen to hear any ideas for improvements the people of Greenstead would like to put forward.

“North East Essex CCG is looking to obtain funding to modernise the GP surgery in The Centre and public engagement will take place in collaboration with the council and other partners.

“We really want to hear people’s views and work with local people to create better services to support their health and wellbeing.”

A Community Taskforce is set to be formed to support the project and will meet monthly at the community centre, in Hawthorn Avenue, to discuss the proposed scheme and act as a representative group for the community.

To find out how to join the group or to fill out the survey, visit here.