Entertainment venue plan for Embassy in Colchester approved

Ian Saunders has received planning permission to turn the former Embassy Suite, off Balkerne Hill, into Solo Summers, a variety entertainment venue hosting live bands, DJs, comedy nights, cabaret, LGBTQ+ events, singles and couples’ nights and family events.

Mr Saunders had originally wanted to turn the building into an adult cabaret venue.

Ian and Solo Saunders

He received planning permission but his bid for a sex entertainment venue licence was turned down following concerns from residents.

Read more >>> Sex entertainment licence bid for Embassy Suite is turned down

He had warned he was set to take his investment elsewhere, but returned with fresh proposals in September dropping the sex entertainment element and promising a more family-friendly venture for Colchester.

Read more >>> New plans to turn Embassy Suite in Colchester into entertainment venue

Colchester Council’s planning officers have rubber stamped the latest proposals, subject to a number of conditions.

The venue will only be allowed to open until midnight Monday to Wednesday, until 1am Thursday to Saturday and to 11.30pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Mr Saunders, who created Solo Summers in honour of his late wife, Solo, who was a dancer, said: “We are obviously delighted the planning application has been successful.

“Like other businesses in the hospitality sector we will need to naturally adapt around the pandemic and associated Government guidelines.

“But our focus is variety entertainment by providing the platform for entertainers to show their talent to the world via live-streaming, supported by live as well as virtual audiences.”

Mr Saunders’ latest plans received considerable support from the public, with 86 per cent of about 300 respondents to a Gazette poll welcoming the bid to reopen the Embassy as a venue.

Read more >>> Should Embassy Suite in Colchester be turned into entertainment venue?

Seven objections were submitted to the plans online, with 15 speaking out in support of the proposals.

The main stage on the first floor will be retained for performances with a large seating area with tables, a DJ booth, longue, kitchen and bar. The ground floor will have a staff office, toilets and more seating.