Residents and visitors are at the heart of investment to transform the city’s transport links, improve local connections and reduce journey times.
A £120 million package of major traffic improvements for Colchester has taken a huge step forward after Essex County Council and Colchester City Council formally joined forces.
Working as Team Colchester, the councils have entered into an agreement to advance the £11.8 million regeneration of St Botolph’s Circus – a key gateway into Colchester city centre.
This includes design, planning and the selection of a contractor to complete the works.
Forming part of the City Centre Masterplan, a roadmap for the future development of Colchester, the proposals for St Botolph’s Circus will see the area regenerated. This will include new plaza areas and improved accessibility for pedestrians, wheelchair users and cyclists.
Other transport infrastructure initiatives in the city are also progressing, funded as part of a £99.9 million Homes England Housing Infrastructure Fund scheme.
Work on the Colchester rapid transit system is currently underway and when operational will help provide fast, regular public transport services across the city, linking key destinations.
Works are also continuing to progress on a number of walking and cycling improvements funded as part of £8 million investment through:
- The Government’s Active Travel Fund
- Towns Deal funding
- Essex County Council funding
- Section 106 funding
“The redevelopment of St Botolph’s Circus is an important step in this process, creating a nicer environment, a better balance between different road users and improved connections into the city centre.
“The scheme will also lay the foundation for future improvements to the bus interchange, which is something we know is of key importance to local people.”
Councillor David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “St Botolph’s is a vital gateway into our city, and I think that’s why so many people have been willing to engage with the councils to shape the scheme.
“The very welcome delivery agreement with the county council will enable our next steps with this project and makes plain our commitment to working together to support and deliver on our shared vision for the city.”
Page last reviewed: 12 March 2024