Colchester Moxy Hotel plans at Post Office delayed again

Elysium Group, alongside its brand partner Marriott, wants to launch a Moxy Hotel in the former Post Office building at the top of North Hill.

The Post Office currently lies vacant after closing in 2018.

Closed - the former post office site at the top of North Hill (Image: Google)

Plans originally went in, outlining a 73-bedroom hotel on three upper floors and a ground floor reception area.

A later revised plan outlined 72 rooms split across four floors in addition to a restaurant and reception facilities at ground floor level.

Those plans, however, did cause some concern, particularly over the height of the hotel.

A decision on the original plans was then delayed with new proposals also going in for a Moxy Hotel at the former Odeon site in Crouch Street.

Luxury - a mock up image of the former plans for the Moxy Hotel from the rear of the building (Image: N/A)

The Post Office plans were then due to be decided at the beginning of this year, however, a further extension of time has been accepted by Colchester Council, pushing a decision date back yet again.

A council document says since the application was received, it has become apparent there are “unresolved issues which will take longer than the usual statutory time period for determining planning applications”.

“However, these issues could potentially be resolved if the applicant were given more time to do so,” it added.

The new decision must be made no later than April 15.

Change - the former and revised plans for the hotel, as viewed from the rear next to Jumbo (Image: b3 architects)

A new document from the council's economic growth team outlines the benefits of the application, including offering employment to residents, bringing back to use an empty unit and the economic benefits for the city.

A statement added: “Combined with the fact that Colchester and north Essex is a fast-growing place then there is a ready market for this hotel so the anticipated growth is likely to be sustainable.”

Bosses at Colchester Council have now said they are "working with the applicant to refine the design of the proposed Moxy Hotel to ensure it integrates seamlessly with the surrounding area".

A spokesman added: “While some design considerations require further discussion, the proposed use of the building as a hotel is generally considered appropriate for this city centre location.

"We remain committed to working collaboratively with the applicant to ensure this development contributes positively to Colchester's vibrancy and growth.”