Following last night’s cabinet decision, Colchester City Council is delighted to confirm that the Heart of Greenstead project is moving forward, with planning permission granted and approval given for the main construction contract to be awarded.
Work to transform Greenstead’s community centre and library into a modern hub for wellbeing, education and support is set to start next year. This follows completion earlier this year of work to extend and improve Hawthorn surgery.
Thanks to a £6.7 million investment from the Town Deal fund, which has already supported free bike provision for the community and steps to calm and manage traffic locally, the next phase of this highly anticipated project is becoming a reality. The new centre will make life easier for residents by providing access to essential services in one place, helping to improve wellbeing and strengthen community connections.
The latest Indices of Multiple Deprivation (IMD 2025) show that the Greenstead area is among the most disadvantaged in England, which makes this investment even more important. The Heart of Greenstead project is Colchester’s commitment to change – a promise to create opportunities, improve health and wellbeing, and celebrate the resilience of this community.
This flagship initiative aims to bring people together and reflect what matters most to the community. There’s more to do to make sure everyone feels involved, and we’re committed to listening and working with residents, partners, and organisations as the project moves forward.
Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “With planning permission granted and the contract awarded, the Heart of Greenstead project is moving from vision to reality. This is a transformative investment in one of Colchester’s most challenged communities, and we are determined to do all we can to help.”
Ward Councillors Tim Young, Julie Young and Elizabeth Alake-Akinyemi said: “We’re delighted to see the Heart of Greenstead project moving forward. This investment will bring real benefits to our community, making it easier for residents to access vital services, improving local wellbeing, and creating new opportunities for support and social connection. The new centre will help strengthen Greenstead for the future and create more opportunities for residents to thrive.”
Construction work is scheduled to begin later in 2026. The next phase will involve detailed design development, preparation of the site and coordination with contractors to ensure delivery on time and within budget.