A LANDMARK scheme to transform Colchester’s former Debenhams is full steam ahead despite no date being confirmed for the start of the project, the city's business chief has said.

The extensive renovation of the defunct department store will see it kitted out with a go-karting track, Boom Battle Bar and trampoline park.

A Putt Putt Noodle golf course will operate on the ground floor alongside an arcade which will also spill over onto the first floor.

The full blueprints for the site in Culver Street West which has been disused since May 2021 were approved by Colchester Council in June.

Gazette: Earmarked - the vacant Debenhams store in Head StreetEarmarked - the vacant Debenhams store in Head Street (Image: Google)

Our Colchester Business Improvement District manager Sam Good said there is no set date for when works are set to commence.

However, he confirmed the scheme is still set to go ahead.

Colchester Council’s leisure boss Michelle Burrows said the scheme is a “vote of confidence in the city centre.

“We are delighted to see this key building let for a new use. This is a vote of confidence in Colchester's city centre and a sign that it remains a resilient and attractive place to do business.

Gazette: Exciting - Boom Battle Bar will be opening on the ground floorExciting - Boom Battle Bar will be opening on the ground floor (Image: Boom Battle Bar)

“The new development is in line with the city's masterplan, which envisages a wide range of uses including leisure.

“It will bring new jobs and leisure spend, support other businesses in the area, provide new vitality and interest in the early evening and drive footfall.

“It will also be great for tourism, adding to the overall offer for visitors and helping to keep people in the city centre longer.

“This is a positive development for Colchester and we are excited to see it take shape.”

Gazette: High octane - a go-karting track will be installed on the top floor of the shopHigh octane - a go-karting track will be installed on the top floor of the shop (Image: Newsquest)

Planners were told in June they could begin to get the vision in motion after being given permission to change the use of the site from retail to leisure.

But they have been told the go-karting course cannot be open outside the hours of 9am and 8pm to ensure residents do not suffer from extra noise.

Blueprints submitted to the council show the racing track is planned to be installed on the top floor.