Jumbo Colchester: What you need to know about revamp plans

Here we take a look at what you need to know about the plans. 

What is being proposed?

Last month it was revealed Colchester had won £18.2m funding from the Government’s Town Deal Fund.

Part of the cash will go towards the first phase of restoring the Victorian water tower.

The Grade ll* listed heritage asset is set to get £1m as part of the ambitious plan.

Charity North Essex Heritage is working with Paul Flatman, the owner of the building, Colchester Council and others to save the landmark and bring it back into sustainable and community use.

The computer generated image by Purcell architects shows the much-loved landmark with a restaurant in the tank and an exhibition space offering a unique perspective on the town’s history.

What is the situation with Jumbo now?

Recent survey work has highlighted that there are some significant structural concerns with Jumbo, but the charity says it has identified a way forward to halt the deterioration.

Read more: 

• First look at how Jumbo could be transformed with restaurant and exhibition space
• Delight as £1m is secured for first stage of restoring iconic Jumbo water tower

Speaking last month David Balcombe, trust director, said: "Repair work will form the basis of the work necessary to enable the rejuvenation of the building.

“Jumbo has waited 35 years for this news.

“There has never been a better time to press on with a project that opens up the water tower for public use in a financially sustainable context."

How soon could the work happen?

The charity say the new image shows what could be achieved "in a few years time". 

The project is now dependent on getting funding to help it move ahead. 

Simon Hall, chairman of North Essex Heritage, said: “We wanted to release this image ahead of the reopening of the Mercury Theatre and the Arts Centre to show how things could look in a few years’ time.

"This will only happen if the project receives the funding it needs, from all sources, allowing Jumbo to be part of Colchester’s exciting cultural hub.

“We are confident that with the continued support of the town and the community we will at last succeed.”

Simon Hall, chairman of North Essex Heritage

Mr Balcombe, added: “If this project receives the funding it so clearly needs, this part of the town will be a real asset for residents and for tourists.

"Imagine walking under the Balkerne Gate, taking in the view of the new Mercury theatre with Jumbo as the backdrop.

"Across the public space there will be a choice of places to have a coffee in the revitalised Balkerne Square, before popping to the High Street for some retail therapy.

“A trip to the top of Jumbo to take in the views and learn about Victorian Colchester, could be followed by dinner in the restaurant and then a show at the Mercury Theatre or a gig at the Arts Centre."