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.
Find information on what you will need to complete a local land charge search if you remortgage or buying property or land.
Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)
See the latest information and updates relating to Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation in Greater Essex.
Discover at Colchester Museums
See Colchester’s first dinosaur skeleton alongside extraordinary fossils and hidden wonders at Hollytrees Museum's new exhibition Discover.
Reminder! Key changes for tenants and landlords from 1 May
14 April 2026
The changes are designed to give people more stability in privately rented homes and to make responsibilities clearer for everyone involved in the private rented sector
£500,000 funding boost announced for Colchester’s Natural History Museum
14 April 2026
The funding announcement follows approval earlier this year to proceed with a programme of essential conservation and repair works, aimed at protecting the structure and ensuring the building can continue to operate safely as a museum
Work begins to transform Trinity Square into a greener, more welcoming space in the heart of the city centre
13 April 2026
The project will gently enhance the space with new paths, benches and lighting, to make a peaceful green space for all to enjoy
Keep up to date
Get the latest news and information from Colchester City Council.