As part of the final phase of the creation of St Nicholas Square, some road closures will take effect in early January 2025.
These closures, affecting parts of St Nicholas Street, Culver Street East, and Long Wyre Street, will be in place for vehicles until April 2025. However, we aim to complete the scheme by March, subject to any unforeseen obstacles and necessary archaeological work.
The road closures will enable the construction teams to focus on widening pavements, installing a new cycling route, and changing the flow of the road to one-way to improve the overall environment and accessibility of the square. This will also support local businesses by offering potential outdoor seating options for cafes and restaurants, while providing an attractive and accessible public space for both residents and visitors.
The work is a continuation of the transformation that began in February 2024, which included new landscaping, seating, and the opening of the area for community events and leisure activities.
The temporary closure of St Nicholas Street and surrounding areas is essential to safeguard both workers and the public during the final phase of construction. However, businesses in the area will remain open and accessible to customers.
Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “We ask businesses and residents to bear with us just a little longer. Though there will be some temporary disruption with road closures in the new year, the result will be a beautiful and more accessible St Nicholas Square that can be enjoyed by everyone in Colchester. We’re particularly excited about the outdoor seating options that will be created for local businesses, enhancing the area’s vibrancy and making it a much more inviting place to spend time. We’re looking forward to seeing the full project come together for the spring, just in time for the warmer months.”
While construction pauses for the holiday season, local businesses have already begun to make use of St Nicholas Square for events such as the Christmas lights switch-on, helping to celebrate the festive period and showcasing the square’s future potential as a lively, community-focused space.
