Colchester residents react to the 'tragic' death of a baby

Essex Police officers attended Seatrade House, in North Station Road, yesterday at about 6.15am after concerns were raised for the welfare of a baby.

The child was taken to hospital by paramedics but sadly died.

An investigation has since been launched by police with the death being treated as “unexpected”.

Tragic - Seatrade House in North Station Road (Image: Newsquest)

Since the death, bosses at Colchester Borough Homes are understood to have met with the accommodation provider and workers have been on site to support residents.

Nearby businesses owners and residents of North Station Road have now offered their deepest condolences to those affected by the loss.

Tilly Somervell, 21, is the co-owner of Pastel Palace, a piercings and tattoo shop based in the road.

She said: “It’s awful, so shocking and disgusting. I hope there is a sense of peace brought to the family.

Saddened - North Station Road (Image: Newsquest)

"If there is anything we can do to help the family..."

The staff at D&M Men's Grooming, a barber shop located just metres away from Seatrade House, were also all saddened by the shocking news.

They said: "It’s very tragic news to hear, we are all parents here, it is awful."

69 North Station Hair Salon is another business found on the opposite side of the road to the temporary accommodation.

Silviu George Tudorache is a barber stylist at the salon and said he was saddened to hear what had happened.

He also believes there are lot of incidents connected to Seatrade House and is concerned how the site may impact pupils at North Primary School and Nursery, which is situated behind it.

Area - the back of Seatrade House and the road which leads to North Primary School & Nursery (Image: Newsquest)

"I'm not happy with what has happened," he said.

"But I also don't know why a temporary housing site has been built on this road.

"Especially as it is in front of a primary school and how that will affect the children and parents after this incident.

"I feel sorry for what has happened."

Building - A close-up on Seatrade House's signage (Image: Newsquest)

A shop worker at a convenience store on the road, who wishes to remain anonymous, has also been left shaken by the news.

He added: "We will be feeling very sad for the family."

Bosses at Colchester Borough Homes have said the parents are working with the relevant authorities to support their investigations. 

A spokesman added: “We are deeply saddened by the reported death of a baby living in temporary accommodation in Colchester.

"Our thoughts are with the family and all those affected at this difficult time.”