Author: Victoria Hanley

Former Students Help Build Colchester Institute’s New Sustainable Construction Centre

Posted on | by Victoria Hanley | Leave a Comment on Former Students Help Build Colchester Institute’s New Sustainable Construction Centre

Colchester Institute has transformed one of its 1960s teaching blocks into a state-of-the-art Sustainable Construction Centre, supported by investment from the Department for Education and Essex County Council.

The centre provides specialist facilities for brickwork, groundworks, painting and decorating, complemented by modern teaching spaces for classroom-based learning.

The project also reflects the enduring relationship between the Institute and Cadman Construction, with a number of former learners returning as Cadman employees to contribute to the building’s redevelopment.

For further information, please see here.

Major investment planned after sale of St John’s Walk Shopping Centre

Posted on | by Victoria Hanley | Leave a Comment on Major investment planned after sale of St John’s Walk Shopping Centre

The recent acquisition of St John’s Walk Shopping Centre by developer ALB Group is a strong vote of confidence in Colchester’s city centre and its future growth potential. The new owner has announced plans to invest significantly in the shopping centre, attract new retailers and bring vacant units back into use, helping to strengthen the city’s retail and leisure offer. Located in a prime position at the heart of Colchester, the investment highlights the opportunities available in one of the UK’s fastest-growing historic cities and reinforces Colchester’s appeal as a destination for businesses looking to invest, expand and be part of an ambitious programme of regeneration.

East of England Continues to Drive Innovation and Investment

Posted on | by Victoria Hanley | Leave a Comment on East of England Continues to Drive Innovation and Investment
The East of England is among the UK’s strongest regions for innovation, with nearly 30% of innovation-led businesses securing follow-on investment, second only to London and above the national average. Research by NatWest highlights the region’s strong network of businesses, investors, universities and research institutions, helping firms attract funding and bring new technologies to market. The report also found that while some grant-supported businesses have achieved exits or significant growth, many have yet to realise their full commercial potential. NatWest said supporting more firms to make the leap from innovation to successful trading could drive further investment, skilled jobs and economic growth across the region.
For Natwest’s full report, see – From Innovation to Impact report

Colchester Council Completes Sale of Northern Gateway Site to Lidl GB

Posted on | by Victoria Hanley | Leave a Comment on Colchester Council Completes Sale of Northern Gateway Site to Lidl GB
Cllr Alison Jay
Cllr Alison Jay, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Transformation and Digital

The sale of a development site on United Way at Northern Gateway to Lidl GB marks another important milestone in the area’s growth and reflects strong investor confidence in Colchester. Following a highly competitive marketing process with multiple bidders, the council secured best value for the site while demonstrating Northern Gateway’s attractiveness as an investment destination. Lidl has also brought part of the wider site to market for future development opportunities, which could help attract further investment. With existing attractions including Colchester Leisure Park, Colchester Sports Park and the park and ride facilities, Northern Gateway continues to play a key role in the city’s development, with any future proposals for the site subject to the usual planning process.