Fit-out work is now officially underway for both Vue and Clip ‘n Climb at Colchester Leisure Park at Northern Gateway. The two major additions are transforming the area into a premier destination for families and thrill-seekers, bringing a variety of new activities and around 80 new jobs.
Read more … https://tinyurl.com/m62mjff4
Image credit: Colchester City Council
Colchester Pubwatch has been awarded the top accolade of the National Pubwatch of the Year at a prestigious ceremony, sponsored by pub chain JD Wetherspoon, at the House of Lords.
The National Pubwatch Award, which is judged by members of the National Pubwatch Committee, recognises the work of local Pubwatch schemes and their efforts to provide safe drinking environments for customers and staff.
Colchester Pubwatch was rewarded for its proactive and forward-thinking approach to managing the night-time economy, including its partnership work with the Police, Business Improvement District and Colchester City Council.
Andy Starr, chair of Colchester Pubwatch, said: “Thank you National Pubwatch. Winning this award is a huge honour and is recognition of the teamwork and commitment shown by everyone involved in Colchester Pubwatch.
“Our aim is to make the City of Colchester a safe and welcoming place for all. This award celebrates the dedication of our members who work as conduits between authorities, licensees and many partners to ensure a safe night out for everyone.”
Read more https://nationalpubwatch.org.uk/awards/2025-national-pubwatch-award-winners/
Image credit: Pubwatch.
Left to right: Vinnie Geaves and Andy Starr (Colchester Pubwatch, Nigel Connor (Wetherspoons), Lord Evans, Steve Baker OBE (National Pubwatch)
Chopstix has confirmed it is moving into the city centre, adding to its 125-plus sites across the UK.
The noodle bar is expected to take over the former Starbucks site on Culver Street West, empty since October last year.
The new restaurant will bring more than 20 new jobs to the city when it opens in March.
Read more https://tinyurl.com/5n7uzdcn
Image: Howard Tribe Photography
Business leaders from across Essex came together on 3 February to set out a confident, business-led vision for the future of Greater Essex, launching a new manifesto focused on accelerating growth, attracting investment and unlocking opportunity across the region.
With a £55 billion economy, 94,000 businesses and 878,000 jobs, Greater Essex is already one of the UK’s largest and fastest-growing regional economies. GEBB highlighted that if the region performed in line with the wider South East, it could generate up to £8 billion more in economic output each year – underlining the scale of the opportunity for businesses operating in the area.
Read the GEBB Manifesto https://tinyurl.com/4tt44scy
Groundbreaking partnerships that are revolutionising industries around the country have been recognised during the University of Essex’s Celebration of Innovation.
The annual event highlights outstanding collaborations between Essex academics and businesses, charities, or organisations that have led to new and innovative ways of working.
Njord Offshore claimed the Best Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) award on the night for their commitment to developing a turbine warning system.
Read more … https://tinyurl.com/musepef5
Leading business and financial advisory firm Grant Thornton UK has opened a new office in Colchester, strengthening its presence in North Essex and reinforcing its commitment to local businesses and talent.
Located at Tollgate Business Park, the office will accommodate around 50 team members, many with strong ties to Colchester and surrounding areas. This strategic relocation positions the firm closer to key clients and will allow for continued service of the region’s dynamic mid-market business community.
Read more … https://tinyurl.com/2xmpzrhb
The University of Essex has moved up to 12th place in the latest Guardian University Guide – its highest ranking ever.
Ranking 1st for Drama in the Guardian University Guide 2026, Essex is also in the top 10 for many other subjects, including 3rd for anatomy and physiology, 6th for biology, 6th for nursing, 6th for mathematics and 10th for sports science.
In addition, Essex is in the UK top 10 for three social science subjects – criminology, economics and international relations, which are all 9th in the guide.
The overall ranking of 12th means Essex is ahead of many Russell Group universities and second in the East of England, only behind the University of Cambridge.
Read more … https://tinyurl.com/3hzs3hka
![2560px University of Essex logo.svg[1]](http://investcolchester.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2560px-University_of_Essex_logo.svg1_-300x152.png "2560px University of Essex logo.svg[1]"){kind=logo}
Colchester City Council has been officially recognised as a Council of Sanctuary by the City of Sanctuary Local Authority Network. This recognises the council’s commitment to fostering a culture of welcome, inclusion, and integration support for people seeking sanctuary.
Colchester has a history of providing support to people seeking safety from conflict and persecution. Today, the city is home to a range of communities who play a valued role in local life.
Read more … https://tinyurl.com/3xesy33d
A £1million upgrade programme for St Mary’s and St John’s car parks will begin next week, starting from the 20 October 2025.
These upgrades are an important contribution to Colchester’s wider regeneration. Ensuring that essential infrastructure is in place ahead of transformative projects like the St Botolph’s Quarter.
Read more … https://tinyurl.com/3dpdtrm9
