Colchester Positive Parking Strategy

Colchester has a population of 190,098 living in 82,055 households. There are currently 132,530 voters in the local electorate. Our population is projected to grow to 216,300 by 2030.

12,500 new homes were built between 2001 and 2015; and 16,000 are projected to be built between 2016 and 2032. The city covers 300 square kilometres and Colchester is the largest district in Essex, with a rapidly growing population and economy. Over the next 15 years Colchester is anticipated to experience one of the fastest growth rates within the county.

6,877 jobs were created between 2004 and 2014 (up 9.6%); and the turnover of the local economy grew to £3.41billion over the same period, an increase of an estimated £200 million of Gross Value Added (GVA) (using 2010 prices). Colchester’s economy attracted an estimated £3 billion of inward investment 2001- 2015.

The University of Essex ranks in the top 20 for research excellence. It is also one of the most international campus Universities in the UK with students from more than 130 different countries. Two of Colchester’s secondary schools appeared in the top 10 for the best GCSE results in the country, and another school achieved the best A-Level results in the UK. Part of the city lies in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it contains 22 conservation areas and 2,056 listed properties. We estimate that approximately 35,000 adults in the city volunteer at least once per month.