HOTLY-opposed plans for flats within Colchester’s so-called Cultural Quarter have been withdrawn by developers.

Last month, the Gazette revealed three separate plans were submitted “by stealth” which sought to dramatically overhaul Priory Walk, Long Wyre Street and Queen Street and featured 76 flats.

But now developers behind two of the proposals, which would have seen the current vacant two-storey buildings demolished and replaced by two differing three and four-storey constructions, have pulled out.

It means the applications for 21 and 18 apartments will no longer be going ahead.

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However, another application, which could see 37 new flats and a gym, in Queen Street, built is still under consideration.

To make way for the gym, the subdivisions between the former Superdrug and the Peacocks premises will be removed to form a larger, single space.

For now though, Robert Mercer, of Colchester Civic Society, says he is delighted to hear the two sets of plans have been withdrawn.

“I’m told the developers had no prior consultations with Colchester Council and I think that’s probably why they’ve been withdrawn as they’ve received advice it won’t be approved.

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“The Civic Society is delighted and the rest of us who opposed the plans are delighted but I have no doubt there will be new schemes coming.

“It does leave us concerned about the prospects for Priory Walk; we’re well aware it’s an area which requires some kind of improvement.

“We’re really concerned about the whole quarter from Culver Street down Long Wyre Street to Short Wyre Street.

“It’s a very ill-defined and rather horrible area which needs a new scheme, a new plan upon which the planning department give some serious thought to ensure something positive can emerge.

“This area is quite frankly an urban blot in our townscape, particularly when the council is trying to improve the visitor experience to this part of town.

“There is a very great need to develop a better scheme for the whole area and whatever is done for Priory Walk should be a central part of a plan.”