I welcome the appointment of Wilkin & Sons to take over the Tymperleys building, which has been an ongoing negative story in the press.

Tymperleys is a fantastic historic building and the deal struck will allow for more people to enjoy the building and gardens with a strong community element, while the maintenance and investment in the building will come from the private sector, not the public purse.

It also gives the chance for a new business to commence in the town, bringing jobs and more income and visitors.

The annual rent, as this building has not been sold, only leased, will be reinvested in the heritage of the town, which will also allow the council to apply for outside grants to help match this investment.

This building still ultimately belongs to the council and the townsfolk of Colchester as, to be clear, it has not been sold.

I am aware the Art Cafe is concerned about the competition, but if you look at the situation in Crouch Street when the Tesco stored opened a few years ago, no retailers have closed and, in fact, the area appears to be thriving with more shoppers.

I am sure the Art Cafe will also thrive with its excellent services and menu. Also, more of the clocks that were in Tymperleys are on display in the Hollytrees Museum, so overall this has become a win/win outcome for the long-term benefit of Colchester.

Martin Goss
Lib Dem councillor
Dickenson Road
Colchester