Plans to restore Colchester’s oldest building have received a £2.65million funding boost – almost 1,000 years after the structure was first built.
Work to restore Holy Trinity Church has been in discussions for several years, with the latest injection of cash from the National Lottery Heritage Fund part of a wider £3.4m programme to redevelop Trinity Square.
It is hoped the new funds will allow Colchester City Council to restore and reopen the church as a flexible community space.
Cllr Paul Dundas, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “The improvements at Trinity Square are already helping to transform this part of the city centre.
“Local businesses have described it as an oasis of greenery in the heart of Colchester and, with new paths, seating and lighting, it will become an even more welcoming public space.
“Together with the restoration of Holy Trinity Church, we’re investing in a place where people can spend time, connect with the city’s heritage and enjoy everything the city centre has to offer.”
Further funding as part of the £3.4m programme has come from partners including Historic England, The Pilgrim Trust, Essex Heritage Trust, Community Assets Fund and Section 106 contributions.
Additional contributions are also being sought to support the project’s delivery. A contractor is yet to have been appointed for the project.
Cllr David King, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Communities and Public Protection, said: “There’s a real positive sense of improvement across the city centre.
“This project, by location and prominence, is key to our city’s visible and welcoming regeneration.
“We will share key dates as soon as we’re able, working towards renewal and re-opening in the second half of 2028.”
Simon Blaxill, Chair of We Are Colchester, added: “Holy Trinity Church is a hidden gem at the heart of our city, and I’m delighted that it will soon become a welcoming and vibrant space for residents, businesses and visitors.
“Colchester is transforming. From St Nicholas Square and the Digital Forum to the upcoming St Botolph’s schemes, the Jumbo restoration and the reopening of the former M&S building, regeneration is no longer an aspiration – it’s happening.
“These improvements show the momentum building across our city centre and the confidence we have in its future.”
