Calls for change at former Debenhams, Odeon, and post office

Debenhams, North Hill’s former Post Office, and the old Odeon in Colchester are three major buildings in a derelict state with uncertain futures.

It has been four years and eight months since Debenhams, in Culver Street West and Culver Square, closed its doors for good after fashion retailer Boohoo purchased the company for £55million.

The former Post Office closed in 2018 as the business moved into WH Smith (now called TG Jones) as part of a restructuring plan.

Crouch Street’s old Odeon opened in 1931 and was a hugely popular building until its closure in 2002 when Odeon moved to its location in Head Street.

Site - the old Odeon in Crouch Street (Image: Newsquest)

Many fires have been started at the site over the years.

The Gazette reported earlier this month on how all three buildings deserve to be revitalised, and readers have now shared their views on Facebook.

Jane Wilson said: “The Debenhams building is an architectural blot, and I would have no objection to it being demolished, open up the outdoor public space.

“I would like the post office to return to the former location which functioned well, unlike the current location, which is a horror, especially during the hot weather.

City centre - the former Post Office in Head Street (Image: NQ)

“As for the old Odeon, save the frontage and perhaps a more modest development rather than the grand schemes of yesteryear.”

Reader Isabel Doran believes the Debenhams building should be demolished as well, she said: “Pull it down, it's a horrible building. Open space with market stalls and pedestrian access to Head Street.

“Better to have the market in one place rather than the stalls dotted around the High Street and precinct.”

Reader James Connolly, meanwhile, believes the city’s “infrastructure needs sorting” first.

He said: “you can put whatever you like in those shops, but unless people can get to them in a convenient way, they will fail like those businesses that were in them before.

“A proper bus station, more easily accessible and sensibly priced car parks and a well-presented city centre is what's needed.

“Everything has moved to retail parks that aren't served by public transport.”

Others still want to see an indoor market for independent businesses at one of the three sites.

Whereas some residents are still calling for big retail fashion brands such as Zara and Bershka to join the city.

A Colchester Council spokesperson said: "While the former Debenhams building is privately owned and therefore outside of the council’s direct control, we continue to do everything we can within our powers.

"We are actively working with landlords, investors and partners to encourage improvement, investment and new uses for key sites across the city centre.

“Despite wider economic uncertainty, Colchester is seeing strong signs of confidence. The City Centre Masterplan has provided a clear framework for future development, helping unlock hundreds of millions in public and private investment.

"Recent regeneration projects such as the Digital Forum and St Nicholas Square are already signalling growth and renewal.

“Alongside this, Amphora Events and the BID are delivering a vibrant programme of events, activities and Christmas lights to create an attractive, enjoyable place to spend time - boosting footfall to support local businesses and further private investment.

“Together, these efforts are designed to create the right conditions for long‑term regeneration.

"While the council cannot directly determine the future of privately owned buildings, we remain committed to working with partners to support the continued renewal and success of Colchester city centre.”