Colchester Council considers hundreds of planning applications every year.

They range from chopping down trees to building extensions, new houses and changes to shops and businesses.

Here, we look at projects recently decided by the council this week.

Straight Road, Prettygate, Colchester

An applicant has had plans to build a detached double garage approved.

It means the build will serve an approved single story dwelling together with storage space for recycled material and household waste.

Colchester Council approved the plans.

Brunel Way, Highwoods, Colchester

A labelling firm has had an application to improve its base approved.

Flora Media UK, based in Brunel Way, Colchester, sought permission to install an illuminated building façade sign.

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Now approved, it will also install reception and gate entrance signs.

Hall Road, West Bergholt

A traditional Essex barn will be reshaped for residential accommodation under newly approved plans.

A small extension to replace a “poor quality” asbestos structure will also be constructed at the barn, in Hall Road, West Bergholt.

Colchester Council approved the plans.

High Street, Colchester

Tesco has been given the green light to open a new shop inside an empty historic building in Colchester High Street.

The supermarket giant has been given planning permission to create a new shopfront and install illuminated signage on an empty unit in the town centre.

It was home to outdoor clothing and equipment retailer Mountain Warehouse, which closed in 2020, and is located next door to the town centre McDonald's.

The move could create dozens of new jobs.