Category: Uncategorized

2021 09 02 Wivenhoe House autorenamed

Students unveil bold new vision for Colchester’s iconic ‘Jumbo’ Water Tower

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Students from the University of Essex’s Edge Hotel School have come up with ideas for the future of Colchester’s iconic Jumbo Water Tower, delivering bold new suggestions that impressed project leaders.

The Victorian water tower, affectionately known as ‘Jumbo’ locally, is currently undergoing a multi-million refurbishment, led by The Balkerne Tower Trust.

The consultancy project challenged students to develop creative proposals for the historic structure, building on earlier calls for fresh ideas to transform the much-loved site. Rising to the task, the group went beyond the original brief, proposing that Jumbo should become a destination restaurant, The Balkerne Bistro, rather than a traditional events venue.

Image credit: Edge Hotel School, University of Essex, Wivenhoe House Hotel

Read more: Students unveil new vision for Jumbo Water Tower | University of Essex

 

 

New £2.5 million BioSTAR laboratory to open at the University of Essex to train scientists for the NHS and the life-sciences sector

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The facility will boost the training of healthcare scientists whose expertise underpins 80 per cent of NHS diagnoses – whilst also providing students with the research skills needed to work in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors.

Opening to undergraduates in 2026, the BioSTAR-Lab, will include a Microbiology and Cancer Diagnostics Laboratory and an open-plan Molecular Biology Laboratory in the School of Life Sciences.

Read more … https://tinyurl.com/nn23dkfm

UOE Life Sciences microscope 1000x1000
UOE Life Sciences microscope 1000×1000

Image credit: University of Essex

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Mercury Theatre – Transforming a Regional Cultural Landmark

Posted on | by web@colchester.gov.uk | Leave a Comment on Mercury Theatre – Transforming a Regional Cultural Landmark
Sector: Arts, Culture & Creative Industries
Innovation/Investment:
The Mercury Theatre undertook a significant redevelopment project, known as “Mercury Rising,” with a total investment of £14.1 million. This initiative aimed to modernise the theatre’s facilities, enhance accessibility, and expand its capacity to better serve the community and support the creative economy.
What They Did:
The “Mercury Rising” project encompassed:
  • Main Theatre Upgrade: Increased seating capacity from 483 to 620 and installation of modern technical equipment.
  • New Facilities: Construction of a Creative Learning Space, professional-standard rehearsal rooms, and a production block for set and costume creation.
  • Business Incubation: Provision of office space for up to 10 creative businesses, fostering local entrepreneurship.
  • Digital Enhancement: Implementation of digital infrastructure to support live streaming and broaden audience reach.
Why It Matters:
This redevelopment has solidified the Mercury Theatre’s role as a central hub for arts and culture in the region. By improving facilities and expanding services, the theatre supports talent development, community engagement, and contributes to the local economy.
Key Partners:
  • Arts Council England
  • South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP)
  • Essex County Council
  • Colchester Borough Council
  • Arts Impact Fund
Outcomes So Far:
  • Enhanced audience experience and increased attendance.
  • Creation of new employment opportunities and support for local creative businesses
  • Strengthened community programs and educational initiatives.
  • Improved financial sustainability and resilience of the theatre
  • Supported local construction supply chains who delivered more than 80% of the build during Lockdown