Progress is underway for the much-anticipated Northern Gateway Leisure Park development. With Cineworld secured as a flagship attraction, a new Travelodge nearing completion, and a range of dining options announced, this park promises to redefine leisure experiences in Colchester.
A drive-thru restaurant operated by Wendy’s is already open for trading, and a Greggs bakery and Fastned EV charging station are expected to open shortly. The 90-bed Travelodge is expected to open by Christmas.
Turnstone Estates, the developer of Colchester’s £70 million Northern Gateway Leisure Park, has announced today that the scheme’s full launch, including the opening of the flagship Cineworld, has been put back until early Summer next year. The company said that delays incurred during construction have not only led to a later than anticipated overall completion (now December), but the building program has become “out of sync” as regards giving tenants access for fit-out. This has led to occupiers being unable to meet their original fit-out and opening schedules.
Although there have been some setbacks in the delivery and completion of the final elements, the facility prepares to deliver an unforgettable experience to the community.
Chris Goldsmith, Managing Director of Turnstone Estates, said: “Northern Gateway Leisure Park is the largest and most complex development of its kind in the UK at present. Building a total of 160,000 sq ft of a cinema, hotel, restaurants, and associated uses from the ground up involves a highly coordinated build programme where the slightest delay can have serious knock-on effects. Unfortunately, that has been the case, but I know the further wait will be well worth it.”
Cllr Mark Cory, deputy leader of Colchester City Council and cabinet member for resources, said: “From the beginning, we envisioned the development of Northern Gateway to have a phased approach, which has come to fruition with the recent opening of Wendy's drive-through restaurant and now continues with the upcoming launch of Greggs within the next few weeks. I eagerly anticipate the next steps in the development, with the opening of various restaurants early next year and the highly anticipated launch of Cineworld in early Summer. These developments are not only enhancing our community's options for entertainment and dining but are also creating numerous job opportunities, with Colchester Northern Gateway set to generate numerous jobs for our local population. I look forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of Colchester Northern Gateway, as it brings prosperity and enjoyment to our wonderful city.”
On completion, Northern Gateway leisure park will comprise a new 12-screen Cineworld multiplex with a Starbucks concession, a 20-lane Hollywood Bowl bowling alley, Puttstars adventure golf centre and a wide variety of restaurants including Slim Chickens, El Guaca, Kaspa’s, Joyato Sushi & Grill, Slim Chickens and Taste of Italy.
Page last reviewed: 26 October 2023