Colchester City Council is highlighting the significant progress being made across the city centre, with major investment, regeneration projects, growing footfall and strong business occupancy helping to create a thriving destination for residents, businesses and visitors.
Since achieving City Status in 2022, around £350 million of public and private investment has been tracked across Colchester, supporting regeneration, economic growth, cultural activity and improvements to public spaces.
Strong foundations for growth
While city centres across the country continue to face economic challenges, Colchester is performing strongly. Lion Walk has also reported footfall growth of up to 12% year-on-year in 2025, alongside full occupancy of its retail units and the sale of Culver Square to a new investor, reflecting growing confidence in the strength and long-term potential of Colchester's city centre.
The council continues to work closely with businesses, landlords and partners to support investment and strengthen the city centre's offer.
Investment delivering real change
A number of regeneration projects are already delivering benefits, including:
- The transformation of St Nicholas Square into a popular event and visitor space, supporting new and established businesses.
- Improvements to Castle Park, including the children's play area.
- A new digital business hub on Queen Street.
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£6.5 million generated visitor spending with Colchester Castle Summer Series through Colchester Events, with millions more expected this summer
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£1 million improvements to city centre carparks, St John’s and St Mary’s, to create an improved experienced for visitors.
- Support for 24 businesses through the InColchester, Business Improvement District (BID) Shopfront Grant Scheme.
- Supporting Essex Heritage to secure more than £8 million to restore Jumbo Water Tower as a visitor attraction.
The council is also progressing improvements to transport connections and accessibility, including plans for a new transport interchange and the redevelopment of St Botolph's Circus.
Cllr Alison Jay, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Transformation and Digital, said: "City Status has helped raise Colchester's profile and attract investment, but it is the work happening on the ground that is delivering real results.
"We are seeing significant regeneration, growing footfall and continued interest from businesses and investors. Our focus is on creating a vibrant city centre that brings together a resilient mix of residential, retail, leisure, culture and events, recognising that successful city centres must evolve and be shaped by future needs rather than reflect what was there in the past, supporting long-term economic growth."
Cllr David King, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for LGR, Communities and Public Protection, said: "There is a huge amount of positive work happening across our city centre. From regeneration projects and public realm improvements to supporting businesses and enhancing public spaces, we are investing in Colchester's future. Working with businesses to ensure the city centre thrives, as an attractive place to work, live and visit.
Vinnie Geaves, InColchester BID Manager, said: "Colchester's city centre continues to perform strongly, supported by a vibrant mix of independent businesses, national retailers, cultural attractions and hospitality venues. Our independent shops are a real point of difference, offering the character, quality and personal service that make Colchester such a unique place to visit. Alongside continued investment and encouraging footfall growth, they help create a positive and welcoming city centre that attracts residents, visitors and businesses throughout the year."
A city with momentum
The council's Strategic Plan, City Centre Masterplan and forthcoming Economic Growth Strategy are providing a clear framework for future growth.
Together, they are helping ensure that City Status continues to act as a catalyst for investment, regeneration and opportunity, building a city centre that is evolving, growing and thriving for the future.
