Trinity Square Colchester plan to face public consultation

Colchester Council is hoping to open up the historic churchyard of Holy Trinity Church to the public and transform it into a tranquil open space.

Town hall officials plan to use £19.2 million Town Deal funding to get the blueprints over the line.

But they faced criticism in March when workers were instructed to axe four trees down in the graveyard with just a couple of days’ notice.

Blueprints – HAT Projects’ proposed scheme for Trinity Square (Image: Hat Projects)

Green oasis – Holy Trinity Church’s graveyard could be transformed under the plans (Image: Newsquest)

Castle ward and Green councillor Mark Goacher previously said he felt “blindsided” by the decision having not been consulted before the trees were felled.

Now residents are being asked to share their thoughts on the transformative project during a consultation event held outside the church on Saturday.

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The new designs will be showcased and a team available to answer any questions people may have.

Lindsay Barker, executive director of place at Colchester Council, said: “We are committed to creating a space that is not only beautiful but also functional and sustainable.

Axed – a tree chopped down in the churchyard in Holy Trinity Church in March (Image: Mark Goacher)

“With your support, we can transform this neglected space into a vibrant and accessible green space that the community can be proud of.

“This is your chance to determine the future of this unique and historic area and help create a legacy for future generations to enjoy.”

A council spokesman said designs have been developed by Colchester-based architects HAT Projects in consultation with Historic England to take a “sensitive approach” to the work.

Mr Goacher said: “I don’t think a heritage place like that in a churchyard should be a public gathering place with people dropping litter on it.

Opposition – Green councillor Mark Goacher (Image: Newsquest)

“My worry is it becomes a place where people are loitering and dropping litter. It has to be well managed.

“My personal view is that I would rather it be left as it is.”

The councillor said he does see positives in the vision, praising plans to install electric charging points for street traders and to move Community360 into the church.

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