CONSTRUCTION of a new community centre is underway - and its occupier has had an early glimpse of the progress.

The Lakelands Centre on the Western Approach, Stanway, Colchester, is set to be the new home of the Anti Loo Roll Brigade.

Colchester Council has confirmed, subject to final legal agreement, that the group is the preferred tenant for the facility.

Peter Dutch, who is the founder of the Anti Loo Roll Brigade, called it a "phenomenal building".

Gazette: Inside the new community facility at StanwayInside the new community facility at Stanway (Image: Newsquest)

The facility boasts a function room, a sports hall, two large kitchens, a community café and a wheelchair accessible playground.

The first floor will be transformed into a therapy center, where children who have experienced trauma will be able to benefit from free therapy and counselling.

Gazette: Inside the new community facility at StanwayInside the new community facility at Stanway (Image: Newsquest)

Support will also be made available for veterans in partnership with Phoenix Heroes, a Colchester-based group which already does great work to support veterans in the area.

Mr Dutch, who "can't believe that [the Anti Loo Roll Brigade] have been given this opportunity", hopes that the centre will open in May. The council have not yet confirmed an opening date for the facility.

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The group was founded three years ago, at the onset of the Covid pandemic, initially to support residents who were struggling with stock shortages in supermarkets.

Its founder said: "We've got a really good feel for where more support is needed in the community.

"This is our way of celebrating our third birthday. It's a present to ourselves and the community."

As well as preparing for the opening of the Lakelands Centre, Peter is also busy with preparations for Colchester's next Anti Loo Roll Festival, which will take part in Castle Park on September 8 and 9.

Tickets are now on sale for the festival, which will feature musical acts including Lemar, who initially rose to fame on the TV show Fame Academy. More information can be found at albfestival.com.