In a proactive move to address growing housing pressures, Colchester City Council is taking decisive action – releasing key public land at Northern Gateway to deliver up to 350 much-needed affordable homes. The residential land parcels have now officially gone to market, marking a major step forward in the council’s commitment to accelerate delivery and meet housing needs.
This strategic move showcases the council’s commitment to using its own land to make a real difference for residents facing housing challenges. By directly enabling development on council-owned plots, Colchester is fast-tracking the creation of high-quality homes across a range of affordable tenures – including Shared Ownership and Rent to Buy schemes - helping local families, key workers and young people access secure and sustainable housing options. These options are designed to help a wide range of residents access homes they can genuinely afford, whether they’re looking to rent below market rates or take their first step onto the property ladder.
Located next to the Colchester Park and Ride and a future hub on the Colchester Rapid Transit System, and home to Colchester United Football Stadium, Northern Gateway is set to become a thriving, sustainable community. With strong links to the city centre, hospital, railway station, University of Essex and the future Garden Community, the site is designed to prioritise public transport, walking and cycling - connecting residents to opportunity.
The council is also exploring a sustainable energy centre at Northern Gateway South, reinforcing its ambition for low-carbon development and long-term energy resilience.
The residential land parcels are expected to attract strong interest from affordable housing providers, with the council working to ensure that development can progress in tandem with essential infrastructure improvements.
Cllr Julie Young, Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “Too many families in Colchester are living in temporary accommodation or struggling to find a home that meets their needs. By bringing these plots to market, we’re taking a real step toward changing that. This is about using council-owned land to create homes that people can actually afford – homes that are close to jobs, schools, and transport links. Northern Gateway isn’t just a development site; it’s a chance to build a community where people feel secure, supported and connected to the rest of the city.”
While plans continue to evolve, the release of these plots signals the council’s commitment to enabling inclusive, sustainable growth for Colchester.
Page last reviewed: 8 September 2025