Church to get £2.8m new look as community hub

An 11th Century church building is to get a new lease of life as a community hub with a £2.8m rework.

The former Holy Trinity Church is the oldest standing building in Colchester city centre, and its tower was built by the Anglo-Saxons in about 1,000 AD.

The church has been closed to the public since 1956 but is used as a museum and and by community groups. The revamp will see it become a community hub with a cafe.

David King, Lib Dem leader of Colchester Borough Council, said: "I welcome yet another step in renewal, restoration and securing the future of this wonderful building."

He added: "The project will mean it can be enjoyed for future generations, historical structures like the church need regular care and attention to make sure they survive the passage of time.

"This is about preserving this heritage building for the future and for purpose and use for the community to enjoy while making it sustainable."

The former Holy Trinity Church is listed on Historic England's Heritage at Risk register, on account of its "fine pre-Conquest west tower".

Work will include improvements to the roof, finishings, windows, doors and walls.

The church will be used by pop-up charity shops, craft fairs, arts and crafts sessions for all ages, as well as a cafe.

Part of the proposals also include a base for St Helena's Hospice.

The restoration is part of major plans by the council to transform the city as the council has outlined plans to spend £19 million across the city, including revamping the Jumbo Water Tower, expanding a doctor's surgery, and creating space for small businesses.

Mr King added: "What we are doing will ensure we have a lovely setting, and working with the hospice to ensure its an attractive, usable working base in the heart of the city centre.

"The city centre's economic hub is helped by the heritage assets being vibrant and accessible, footfall and tourism are helped by us making the most of these buildings."

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