Colchester City Council has been shortlisted for three categories at the 2026 Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Awards - one of the sector’s most respected national events. This year saw more than 1,000 entries, the highest in the awards’ history, reflecting the exceptional innovation taking place across local government.
Transforming temporary accommodation
Our innovative work to convert former student accommodation into high quality temporary homes has been recognised in the Housing category.
In response to rising rents and increased pressure on affordable housing, we worked with Colchester Borough Homes to repurpose vacant student units into fully equipped, excellent quality homes. This approach provides families with stability, dignity and access to proper facilities and nearby services - a significant improvement on traditional bed and breakfast placements.
Cllr Julie Young, Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “This innovative approach to temporary accommodation demonstrates our commitment to providing safe, fully equipped homes for families when they need them most. By transforming former student housing into high‑quality temporary accommodation, we’re helping to offer residents greater stability, dignity and support during challenging times. This recognition highlights the dedication and collaboration of everyone involved in improving outcomes for our community.”
Beyond the Uniform – Changing perceptions and protecting frontline workers
We have also been shortlisted for Campaign of the Year for Beyond the Uniform, a behaviour change campaign delivered on behalf of the North Essex Parking Partnership (NEPP) and developed with Brighton & Hove City Council.
Funded by PATROL’s Driving Improvement Award, the campaign responds to the rising levels of abuse directed at Civil Enforcement Officers. By sharing personal stories and highlighting the people behind the uniform, the campaign has fostered empathy, reduced hostility and helped rebuild trust between officers and the communities they serve. Early results show a clear shift in public attitudes, reduced incidents of abuse and strong positive engagement. The campaign has since expanded nationally.
Cllr Paul Honeywood, Chair of NEPP, said: “The Beyond the Uniform campaign has made a real difference for our Civil Enforcement Officers. By showing the people behind the role, we’ve helped change perceptions and build greater respect across the communities we serve. I’m delighted to see this work recognised on a national stage.”
Colchester Amphora – Driving economic growth
Finally, our commercial arm, Amphora Group, has been shortlisted in the Economic Support category for its exceptional contribution to the city’s visitor economy through Amphora Events.
Operating as a £1.5m a year business, Amphora Events delivers more than 750 events annually, attracts over 250,000 visitors, and generates more than £22 million in economic impact. By maximising the potential of council owned assets - including Charter Hall, Castle Park and the Town Hall - Amphora has helped position Colchester as a thriving destination for residents, visitors and investors.
Cllr Martyn Warnes, Chair of Amphora Group, said: “We are incredibly proud that Amphora has been recognised in the Economic Support category. Amphora Events plays a vital role in driving footfall, supporting local businesses and showcasing the very best of Colchester’s culture and community spirit. This shortlisting reflects the dedication, creativity and commercial acumen of the team.”
Cllr David King, Leader of the Council, said: “Being shortlisted for three national awards is a great recognition of the innovation, partnership working and the passion to deliver better happening across our council. These projects share a clear purpose - improving lives, strengthening our city and delivering practical solutions to real challenges. I’m incredibly proud of the teams involved and delighted to see their work acknowledged on a national stage.”
Looking ahead
Winners of the LGC Awards 2026 will be announced on 10 June 2026 at Grosvenor House, London.
Our triple shortlisting - in a record-breaking year for entries - underscores our commitment to creativity, leadership and delivering meaningful change for the communities we serve.