Gamet Bearings building in Colchester to become 65 flats

The former Gamet Bearings factory in Colchester was closed after almost 70 years in 2019 after being bought by rival firm HB Bearings.

Police officers later discovered the building in Hythe Station Road had been converted into a cannabis growing operation, housing 6,500 plants in April 2021.

Plans for 65 apartments and underground parking are now expected to be approved when Colchester Council’s planning committee meets on Thursday, October 19.

Improvements - the public realm surrounding the disused factory will be significantly improved (Image: Stanley Bragg Architects)

Operation - the factory was found to be home of a major cannabis growing operation in April 2021 (Image: Newsquest)

Applicant Raj Singh Rathore will be allowed to oversee the demolition of the historic factory once given the green light.

The residential accommodation will be split across three blocks and comprise of five two bedroom duplex units, 12 one bedroom flats and 48 two bedroom homes.

Two commercial units will be included, as well as 71 undercroft car parking spaces alongside 124 cycle parking spots.

Major improvements to the public realm surrounding the development will also be made.

Operation - the factory was found to be home of a major cannabis growing operation in April 2021 (Image: Essex Police)

Defunct - the factory has been vacant since Gamet Bearings closed in 2019 (Image: Newsquest)

A report to be served to the planning committee states the scheme “is anticipated to act as a catalyst for further positive regeneration” in the Hythe area.

It adds: “The proposal will provide housing in a sustainable location so that future residents would not be wholly reliant on private car, being able to walk, cycle or use public transport to access necessary services and facilities, thereby minimising environmental impacts.”

But the development has also attracted criticism, with Greenstead councillor Julie Young branding it “overbearing”.

She said: “[It] will result in loss of amenity for residents of Greenstead Road.

Fire - the building went up in flames in January (Image: ECFRS)

“This will also result in serious parking and congestion issues on an already busy road.”

The scheme will, however, help to address safety issues concerning squatters taking refuge in the abandoned factory.

Police said in August they had found bedding and other personal items during searches of the building, which comprises five sections.

Fire officials were also left scratching their heads after the site went up in flames in January.