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With construction of the firstsite arts and cultural complex now underway the development of the wider St Botolphs area is moving forward – and we need your help.
The vision for the area around the firstsite building, as set out in the St Botolph's Quarter Masterplan adopted by the Council in June 2005 is to create a cultural hub for the town – a place where people can shop, socialise, be entertained, work and live.
A development competition was launched back in November to find an architect / developer to bring this vision to life. Four first stage design concepts were selected by a panel and now we want to know what you think about them.
Work has already started to look at potential uses for the cultural quarter and some of the activities and facilities being considered are;
- Independent small shops and specialist boutiques - encouraging local businesses and reflecting the cultural offer in the new visual arts and cultural facility.
- Residential apartments/townhouses – Onsite residents will bring a sense of community and all round activity to the area.
- Public space – An area of multi-functional public space could accommodate performances, artists’ exhibitions, or artisans markets.
- Creative studios/workshops – Activities which encourage people to do and make things locally.
- Office accommodation could be provided to target specifically arts/cultural related businesses e.g. media/broadcasting.
- Bars/cafes/restaurants would ensure presence in the quarter after shops close and to offer evening activities to local residents and visitors alike.
- Heritage resource centre – Linking all of the historic assets in the immediate area and could provide a history of the town and could potentially accommodate local public records and/or resource facility.
- Arcade with local trade stalls selling local produce or other specialist items.
Tell us what you think about the proposals for how the cultural quarter could be used and help us bring the area to life!
What does a cultural quarter mean to you? What would encourage you to go there – during the day, and in the evening? Are you a local producer, artist or performer? How would you use the cultural quarter?
We want your views to make the cultural quarter a vibrant, creative space that helps to expand the cultural vitality that already exists in Colchester whilst enhancing our important historical elements. Debate ideas with other residents via our forum
- see discussion topics below or click here to send us a comment.
Alternatively you can email your views to stbotolphs@colchester.gov.uk or send them to us by post at Cultural Quarter comments, PO Box 5215, Town Hall, Colchester, CO1 1GG
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