RESIDENTS in Colchester are being invited to help shape the future of the city.

Colchester Council is set to hold two Residents’ Panel Workshops exploring plans for the Jumbo Water Tower renovation and the Local Plan Review Consultation.

The sessions are part of the council’s ongoing efforts to engage the local community in the development and improvement of council services.

More than 280 residents from across Colchester have already committed to joining the panel, participating in consultations, surveys, and discussions aimed to shape the city’s future.

The first in-person workshops are scheduled for some time in March, organised in partnership with North Essex Heritage.

Gazette: Iconic - Jumbo water towerIconic - Jumbo water tower (Image: Newsquest)
They will focus on the proposals for the Jumbo Water Tower to gather feedback on ways to strengthen public engagement with the iconic landmark.

Simon Hall, chairman of North Essex Heritage, said: "We can’t wait to hear what the members of the Residents’ Panel think about our emerging plans for Jumbo.

"We are talking to diverse groups across the city, and it is exciting to get ideas from everyone interested in Colchester and its future."

Residents aged 18 and over can join the panel and play a role in shaping the Local Plan document for the city.

The Local Plan acts as a strategic guide for Colchester's progression, touching upon factors such as housing, infrastructure, and environmental considerations.

Members of the panel will be encouraged to provide input on Colchester's strengths, express their vision for the city's future and identify potential opportunities which could emerge by 2041.

Insights and feedback from these activities will be relayed to decision-makers at Colchester Council to aid in shaping projects and making final determinations.

Gazette: Boss - Colchester Council leader, David KingBoss - Colchester Council leader, David King (Image: Newsquest)
Leader of Colchester Council, David King, said: "The Residents’ Panel gives a voice to members of our community of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to contribute from their perspectives and ideas to help build an inclusive and vibrant city for generations to come."

No prior knowledge or experience is needed to take part.

For more information on joining the panel, visit the Colchester Council’s website or email residents.panel@colchester.gov.uk.