Complaints made about £1.6m St Nicholas Square pavement work

Work on transforming St Nicholas Square in Colchester got underway last month. 

The pavements are set to be made wider with space for bars, cafés and restaurants in the area to have outside seating.

The scheme is the second big scheme kicking off this year as part of Colchester’s wider regeneration project.

Initial works have seen existing paving slaps torn up ready to be replaced by York stone. 

Development - The work underway at St Nicholas Square (Image: Newsquest)

But some residents have raised concerns about the sustainability of the project and asked Colchester Council what will happen with the slabs. 

One resident, Trevor Orton said: "Only recently published was a claim that money was unavailable for the repair of pavements in Colchester city.

"Can Colchester Council explain why the scandalous waste of perfectly reusable paving slabs has been assigned to the skip?

"They could and should have been reused to repair or replace the damaged paving slabs throughout the city thus avoiding the use of unsightly tarmac."

Slabs - The pile of paving slabs (Image: Trevor Orton)

Colchester Council has defended the use of new paving slabs and says those removed will be recycled.

A spokesman said: “We understand these concerns and appreciate feedback, particularly regarding the importance of maintaining safe walking surfaces for everyone.

“The St Nicholas Square regeneration project will see old concrete slabs replaced with York stone, a more durable and long-lasting material.

"This upgrade is necessary to meet highway safety standards and prevent trip hazards."

The spokesman said in some case paving slabs are found to have hidden damage. 

They said: “We are committed to sustainable practices. While some existing slabs may appear usable, a full inspection often reveals hidden damage unsuitable for reuse.

"However, the removed concrete is not discarded. It is recycled into valuable construction materials, minimising waste.

“We appreciate the public’s patience as these vital works progress. The improved walkways and revamped public realm will provide a safer and more pleasant experience for everyone in the long run.”