WORKS are expected to start soon on a major revamp in Colchester city centre.
St Nicholas Square, which is just off Colchester High Street, is set to be redeveloped as part of a huge regeneration project.
The project was delayed last year however eagle-eyed residents have spotted fresh parking notices in the area, banning parking from January 5 until May, sparking questions about the project beginning soon.
Colchester Council has said while a start date is still being finalised, work will commence this year and will take about six months to be completed.
A spokesman said: “2024 launches a major transformation of Colchester's city centre, with a £10million investment into the city centre, which will go towards reimagining St Nicholas Square as a vibrant public space.
“We know businesses and residents are buzzing with anticipation as we finalise a start date with partners and chosen contractors.
“Work will commence this winter, should take about six months, and we look forward to breaking ground soon.”
Work to remove existing trees at the site took place last February, with plans to replace them scheduled to take place “later in the project”.
A previous council report said construction was due to start in April, but also revealed costs on the project have increased.
The square is going to be redeveloped using funds from the £19.2million support package granted to Colchester as part of the government’s Town Deal fund.
The bulk of the cash was awarded to the council in March 2021, with £1.6million used to push forward a plan to revamp St Nicholas Square.
As part of the revamp, plans show the pavements are set to be made wider with space for bars, cafés and restaurants in the area to have outside seating.
As well as this, there will be more cycle parking and the roads system is set for a total overhaul to create an area “less dominated by cars and traffic”.
St Nicholas Street could also become one way to traffic, with access from the High Street stopped but access from Culver Street East remaining.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel