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.
Make a payment for council tax, business rates, rent and service charges and more.
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.
Shape Colchester’s future!
We’re drafting Colchester’s local plan, and your input is crucial. Share your views on housing, green spaces, transport, and sustainability.
Recycling just got easier for 10,500 flats in Colchester
20 January 2026
Flats included in this rollout will start to receive a food recycling caddy, along with a complimentary set of liners and a leaflet explaining the new service.
Have your say on Stanway’s new wheeled sports facility
16 January 2026
Help us shape plans for a new outdoor wheeled sports facility planned for Stanway Country Park!
Open letter from the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Essex Leaders and Chief Executives Group – Local Government Reorganisation
13 January 2026
"We all look forward to delivering the vision of making Essex an even better place to live and work."
Keep up to date
Get the latest news and information from Colchester City Council.