Turnstone Estates has filed a revised planning application to Colchester Borough Council for its 200,000 sq ft leisure development in Colchester.
Proposals for the Northern Gateway site, which is set for completion by around 2022-2023, feature a 12-screen Cineworld cinema, a bowling alley let to Hollywood Bowl, a Puttstars indoor golf centre, a climbing centre operated by Jump Street, seven restaurants,; a 90-bedroom hotel, and 750 car parking spaces.
The application, which has reduced the number of restaurants, will add two drive-thrus and more active leisure space, as well as eight electric car rapid charging points. Previously, it allowed for up to 13 restaurants at the scheme.
Colchester Northern Gateway was originally granted planning permission in 2018. However, the project was delayed after market uncertainty dented occupier confidence, particularly in the dining sector.
Turnstone modified its proposals after discussions with its planned tenants.
David King, councillor and portfolio holder for business and resources, said the plans represented a “significant step forward” in the development of a project that will bring “hugely valuable new jobs and investment into Colchester”.
Chris Goldsmith, managing director of Turnstone Estates, said: “Despite the current uncertainty around the leisure sector, we have been buoyed by the continued level of occupational demand for Northern Gateway.”
Colchester Amphora Trading, the council’s commercial trading company, is project managing the development, which includes the leisure complex.
It will deliver up to 350 new homes, healthcare provision with senior living accommodation, and up nearly 600,000 sq ft of commercial floorspace.
Mark Cory, leader of Colchester Borough Council, added: “This is a joint council and private sector project that will bring major benefits to Colchester. It is a real boost for our economy at this difficult time.
“This project is a great example of how the council is using its assets to provide a whole new entertainment and leisure complex for residents and visitors to enjoy, whilst ensuring it brings in money for the council to help pay for frontline services.”
Subject to approval, work will start early next year.
Turnstone is advised by Whybrow and Wareing and Partners.
To send feedback, e-mail pui-guan.man@egi.co.uk or tweet @PuiGuanM or @estatesgazette
