Whether you’re local or visiting, there’s always something to see and do in Colchester. Explore events, activities and ideas to help you plan your trip.
Council services
Find helpful support and advice for keeping on top of rising living expenses.
View your recycling calendar, order new containers and find out what to put out each week.
Search for planning applications, submit an application and find guidance and resources for navigating the planning process.
Register for Council tax, pay your Council tax bill and apply for a discount or exemption.
Manage your business rates account, find out about our business waste collection service and obtain licensing.
Make a claim, manage your account and find helpful advice and support.
Apply for Building Control approval, check which supporting documents are required and how much it costs. You can also search for an application.
Apply for housing and manage your account.
Register to vote and find out about upcoming elections.
Report fly-tipping, find out about street cleaning or pay a fixed penalty notice.
Book a pest control appointment, report a lost dog or report a noise nuisance.
Buy a parking permit, find car parks and information about road closures.
See and apply for our available positions, find out about apprenticeship opportunities and work experience.
Colchester Leisure World, Aqua Springs spa, Colchester Events, Colchester and Ipswich museums.
Apply for licences (including premises licences, taxi driver licences, temporary event notices), and access our licensing register.
Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)
See the latest information and updates relating to Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation in Greater Essex.
Splash into confidence at Leisure World
Fun, friendly swimming lessons for all ages and abilities!
Wivenhoe Jetty reopens following completion of repair works
6 March 2026
The jetty was temporarily closed after it was struck by a large boat, causing damage that required specialist assessment
Celebrating local eCargo pioneer Emily Hughes this International Women’s Day
6 March 2026
We’re proud to shine a spotlight on Emily Hughes, a Colchester resident who is helping to change the way goods are delivered across our city
Help keep the places you love tidy – join the Great British Spring Clean this March
5 March 2026
Running from 13-29 March, the national campaign led by Keep Britain Tidy brings people together to make a difference in their neighbourhoods
Keep up to date
Get the latest news and information from Colchester City Council.