TRUSTEES who fought to protect the future of Colchester’s iconic Jumbo were invited to tour the famous tower.

Members of the Balkerne Tower Trust paid a visit to the Grade II listed building, after North Essex Heritage secured a 150-year lease for it.

North Essex Heritage has ambitious plans for Jumbo to be converted into a visitor attraction, with stunning views from the top for miles in each direction, and for a restaurant at ground level.

A glazed lift is also proposed at the site which was built in 1883 as the only access to the top is via 157 steps on a winding staircase.

Later this year an application will be made to the Heritage Lottery Fund for financial support to carry out the work.

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Trustee Sir Bob Russell said: “The Balkerne Tower Trust, led by our inspirational chairman Brian Light, has made the case for the largest surviving Victorian water tower in Britain to become a national heritage attraction.

“Fortunately, over the years different councillors at different times refused inappropriate planning applications.

“By contrast, North Essex Heritage has put the public benefit at the centre of their aims for Jumbo. They have my support.”