More than £100 million will boost travel links in Colchester after a funding package for a raft of projects was confirmed.

A £120 million package of traffic improvements for Colchester has taken a major step forward after Essex County Council and Colchester Council formally joined forces. 

Working as Team Colchester, both councils have entered an agreement to advance £11.8 million for the regeneration of St Botolph’s Circus, including design, planning and the selection of the contractor. 

David King, leader of Colchester Council, said: “St Botolph’s is a vital gateway into our city, and I think that’s why so many people have been willing to engage with the councils to shape the scheme. 

Gazette:
“The very welcome delivery agreement with the county council will enable our next steps with this project and makes plain our commitment to working together to support and deliver on our shared vision for the city.” 

As part of the City Centre Masterplan, it includes new plaza areas and improved accessibility for pedestrians, wheelchair users and cyclists. 

Lee Scott, cabinet member for planning a growing economy at Essex County Council, said: “Colchester is a historic city with a thriving modern economy. We are working closely with our city council partners to help shape and develop a transport system, which supports people to move around quickly and efficiently but removes reliance on car use in the centre. 
 
“The redevelopment of St Botolph’s Circus is an important step in this process, creating a nicer environment, a better balance between different road users and improved connections into the city centre. 

Gazette:
“The scheme will also lay the foundation for future improvements to the bus interchange, which is something we know is of key importance to local people.” 

Other transport infrastructure initiatives in the city are also progressing, funded as part of a £99.9 million Homes England Housing Infrastructure Fund scheme. 

Work for Colchester’s rapid transit system is also underway, which will provide fast, regular public transport services across the city, linking key destinations once it is completed. 

Colchester Council also confirmed several walking and cycling improvements are funded as part of an £8 million investment through the Government's Active Travel Fund, the Towns Deal funding, county council funding and Section 106 money.