COLCHESTER Council has announced plans to build new housing estates on two of its busy town centre car parks.

The plans, which will be discussed by the council’s cabinet next Wednesday, would see almost 200 new homes built at Vineyard Street and the Britannia Car Park.

At Vineyard Street 70 “highly sustainable” new homes could be built along the old medieval street plan.

The proposals would see the Roman town wall opened up to provide a backdrop for new business units, including space for retail, food and pop up stalls, as well as the homes.

Transformation - a CGI artist’s impression of the plans for Vineyard Street car park in Colchester
  • A CGI of the Vineyard Street plans

Up to 120 new homes could be built at the Britannia Car Park, 30 per cent of which will be affordable, with plans also featuring the creation of a new green town square.

The council says some car parking space will be retained at both sites, and a review of parking capacity in the town centre will take place.

Disabled spaces will remain and be protected as part of any development. 

An assessment in order to provide replacement parking will take place. 

David King, councillor responsible for business and resources, said: “The transformation of these two sites into vibrant new ‘liveable neighbourhoods’ with improved public realm, softer landscaping and a boosted café culture, will add vitality to the town centre and support a stronger post-Covid recovery for the borough.

“This is a hugely welcome step change, away from shopping alone, to realising the potential of these spaces.

“They are strategically located and can be welcoming and inspiring gateways into town for residents, shoppers and visitors alike.

“Their regeneration will act as a powerful catalyst for even wider renewal and investment.

“Bringing people into great places to live close to the town centre will restore vibrancy and footfall.

“We can create a closer link between the places where we work and live and restore a new sense of daily life and community in the heart of our great town.”

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The council says the plans will help make the town centre greener and be complimented by the new £100million so-called Rapid Transit System, Essex County Council’s Safer, Greener, Healthier initiative and work to improve the town’s air quality.

If approved Colchester Amphora Homes Ltd (CAHL), the council’s commercial company, will progress the projects through feasibility and viability stages including public consultation.

Theresa Higgins, councillor responsible for commercial services, said: “CAHL will deliver sustainable, affordable and high-quality homes amongst a mix of commercial uses which regenerate the area and contribute to the town’s long-term future.”

Regeneration of both car parks has been planned since 2005 as part of the St Botolph’s Masterplan.