THE future of the city's former Rollerworld site has been revealed, after London's largest furniture clearance company announced plans to open a new flagship store in Colchester.
Furniture Outlet is launching a 30,000 sq ft showroom inside 13 Moorside, which was home to the cherished roller-skating rink for 32 years before it shut down in November 2022.
The new addition to the city, officially opening next Friday, aims to offer an array of affordable pieces for every home - from décor to furniture.
Shoppers can expect to see everything from chic sofas to elegant dining sets, functional storage solutions, and fashionable accessories.
Ian Bellis, director at Furniture Outlet, said: "We are excited to bring our unique furniture shopping experience to the vibrant community of Colchester.
"With our extensive range of products, unmissable bargains and friendly staff, we look forward to becoming a go-to destination for everyone’s home furnishing needs in the area."
The former Rollerworld site had been on the market for a number of months.
The rental unit was listed for £20,833 per calendar month, which amounts of roughly £250,000 a year to rent.
Despite Furniture Outlet's optimism, ward councillor Steph Nissen is disappointed the site wasn’t replaced with a new rink or sporting venue.
She said: “I was gutted when Rollerworld closed.
“For me, as for so many of us, it was a childhood happy place and I had fond memories of teenage time spent there.
“I’d have loved to see another rink open there, or another family-friendly sporting venue. So, the news it’s a furniture store is a bit disappointing.
“I’m also concerned about the parking and delivery trucks and the impact on residents, traffic and air pollution.
“This is surely better at an out-of-town retail park.
“It will be interesting to see how the business does in this location, and if they can make a success of it here.”
The new Colchester branch strengthens Furniture Outlet's existing portfolio, joining branches in Dagenham, Wickford, and Leigh.
It will be open Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm, and Sunday, 10am to 4pm.
What happened to Rollerworld?
Rollerworld was a staple of Colchester for more than three decades before being forced to close about 18 months ago.
The roller-skating rink shut its doors due to a price hike in rental costs by landlords Petchey Holdings.
Bosses at the company previously told the Gazette they considered the terms for the new lease, however, to be “below the market rate".
Following its closure, various successful reunion events have been held Charter Hall, organised by Rollerworld owners Anne and Jason Khan.
It was at an event last November those who gathered were told about the newly established Rollerworld Foundation - the couple's new charity venture which aims to bring back skating to the community.
The non-profit will strive to promote the participation of skating sports in the city and protect and safeguard the future of the Rollerworld brand and what it stands for.
Speaking previously on the charity’s launch, Mr Khan said: “Anne and I are determined not to lose such a much-loved institution from the UK.
“The formation of the Rollerworld Foundation charity is a considerable first step to achieving the dream we all have of opening 'Rollerworld 2' at some point.”
Rollerworld is back at the Charter Hall next month for its 80s v 90s Extravaganza event.
For more information or tickets visit colchester-events.co.uk.
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