Our plans

The proposed scheme seeks to modernise the existing building and put it to good use for local people. 

Under our updated plans, the building would remain in its current form but be subdivided into three new units, delivering an Argos Local Fulfilment Centre, gym space and third retail unit.  

The site already benefits from good accessibility for visitors travelling by car. The car park would be reconfigured, to provide a total of 377 spaces across the site, including 24 disabled bays and staff parking accommodated on-site. The service road behind the building would also be widened, to improve access to the service yard.

A new 3m footpath and cycleway would be incorporated within the car park, to improve connectivity with the surrounding area. 

Argos

As part of the redevelopment, we are excited to introduce a new Argos Local Fulfilment Centre (LFC). 

Sainsbury’s is opening LFCs as part of its new Argos logistics network – LFCs are localised distribution centres that aim to offer households in the areas they serve a choice of over 20,000 products for same day home delivery or collection from nearby Click & Collect points. This would allow residents across Colchester to have access to a much greater choice of products, faster than ever before as part of our ambition to make Argos a more convenient, digital business. 

Gym

We are also delivering a new 15,000 sq. ft. gym space for local people as part of this redevelopment, providing a wide range of health and leisure benefits in a great location, within walking distance for many residents.  

Retail unit

We are also planning to offer a new retail unit, while the existing garden centre would be retained. 

Although there is no confirmed operator at present, we envisage that this unit could be occupied by a discount retailer who would sell a range of ambient food, household goods, garden products and kitchenware.