Debenhams in Colchester to be transformed - here's how

Plans have been given the green light by Colchester Council to change the use of the site in Culver Street West from retail to leisure.

In doing so, blueprints included in the proposal have revealed the exciting vision for what the building, which has been vacant since May 2021, could soon host.

Here’s a floor by floor breakdown of what has been approved: 

Ground floor

Vacant - the former Debenhams building has been vacant since May 2021 (Image: Google)

The ground floor will boast an arcade accessed at the Culver Square entrance and a Putt Putt Noodle mini golf course at the Culver Street West end.

Boom Battle Bar, which offers axe throwing, augmented reality darts and more alongside a licensed bar, will be accessed via Head Street.

First floor

The first level will see another arcade installed alongside an indoor trampoline park run by Flip Out.

The entire premises will be operated by Flip Out which is a leisure entertainment brand offering a “trampoline and adventure park experience”.

Unique - axe throwing is one of the activities offered by Boom Battle Bar (Image: Boom Battle Bar)

Second floor

A 3,755 sq m go-karting course where drivers can zoom around the former department store will be opened on the second floor.

What have people said?

Our Colchester Business Improvement District boss Sam Good said the development will be “an anchor to drive more visitors in”.

He said: “It is crucial that this development is considered alongside its economic impact on the city centre.

“The development itself would be unmatched by a large retailer due to the nature of the retail sector at this current time.

“As city centres evolve across the UK, we must support this evolution with increased experiences for visitors and residents.”

He added: “This brand is taking an exceptional leap in this level of investment in Colchester and it is a real sign of their faith in Colchester's current and potential ability.”

There were just two objections submitted for consideration by Colchester Council in relation to the scheme.

One said: "We already struggle with trying to sleep at night due to the anti-social behaviours of the public and we think this will encourage more young adults and adults to cause more problems to where we live."