COLCHESTER’S MP has revealed his ambitious vision for sections of the city’s Town Hall to be transformed into a museum.
Will Quince said the 124-year-old building in Colchester High Street has become a “palace for politicians”.
In a letter to Colchester Council’s chief executive, Pam Donnelly, the Conservative MP argued the historic site is “massively under-used” and boasts the potential to become a tourist attraction.
It has sparked backlash from councillors including Liberal Democrat for Shrub End Sam McCarthy, who claimed the letter was a “strange stab at local councillors”.
Mr Quince said the historic venue would be “the perfect place to mark and celebrate our soon-to-be city’s military heritage”.
His letter reads: “Colchester has a magnificent Town Hall but as you will be aware, apart from the Moot Hall, it is not a very well-used building.
“Several parts of it including the ground floor, old library, courts and cells are rarely used.
“Even the council chamber itself is only used on a handful of occasions per month.
“This is a crying shame”.
I want to see Colchester's Town Hall be more than a palace for politicians by turning unused and rarely used parts into a military museum. In my view, it is the perfect place to mark and celebrate our soon to be city's military heritage and pride at being home to @16AirAssltBCT pic.twitter.com/hqTA5QQ4Is
— Will Quince MP 🇬🇧 (@willquince) November 21, 2022
Mr Quince implored city bosses to “think bigger” when exploring ways to make Colchester an attractive city break destination.
He continued: “I would therefore be grateful is you would explore turning what is now a massively under-used palace for politicians into a much needed visitor attraction for our city.”
The MP said he wants there to be a focus on Colchester’s military heritage and “pride” at being the home of 16 Air Assault Brigade.
His vision for the building built in 1898 has proven divisive, however.
New Town and Christ Church councillor Sam McLean argued the venue is “a lot more” than a place for politicians to meet.
Mr McLean said he agreed Colchester is in need of a military museum.
Old Heath, Hythe and Rowhedge councillor Lee Scordis suggested Mr Quince’s “palace” accusation was ironic.
He said: “Man who works in a literal palace for politicians demeans local councillors for having a Town Hall.”
Mr McCarthy added: “I’m immensely proud of our town hall”.
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