Ambitious proposal to convert 18th-century houses

2:00pm Wednesday 13th April 2011

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THREE of Colchester’s finest historic town centre buildings could be transformed into a hotel and restaurant.

Plans to convert Grey Friars, Hillcrest and All Saints House, in High Street, into a 21-bedroom boutique hotel with a bar, restaurant, function rooms and offices, have been supported by planning
officers.

The application, by OMC Invetsments, will go before the planning committee on Thursday.

It would normally be decided by officers under delegated powers, but councillors Bill Frame and Henry Spyvee wanted it discussed because of the disturbance they believe it would cause to 24
families living at Grey Friars Court, next door.

But reports by Colchester Council officers say any potential impact on neighbours could be controlled and the development would enhance
the area.

Grey Friars is considered one of the finest Georgian houses in the town centre and was built in the 18th century, while Hillcrest was linked to it as part of the Edwardian extension works.

Both formed part of Essex County Council’s adult community college, but were sold three years ago when courses were moved to the Wilson
Marriage Centre, in Barrack Street, Colchester.

All Saints House dates from the 18th century and, like the other two buildings, is listed and empty.

The site is on an area of land where a friary stood until the 16th century and from which Grey Friars takes its name.

It is opposite the new Firstsite visual arts building, due to open in September.

Colchester Council has received seven letters of objection to the hotel, highlighting concerns about extra traffic, cooking smells and noise from
outdoor events.

Environmental officers recommended rules are put in place to restrict the hours which the garden and terrace areas can be used.

They also want sound insulation and grease traps to be used so neighbours do not suffer smell or noise problems from the hotel.

The officers’ report concludes: “The proposals are considered to be an appropriate use of the site, sympathetic to the special interest of the listed buildings.

“They would involve significant investment within the town centre, bringing new life to these important historic buildings,
enhancing the vitality, character and appearance of the conservation area and furthering wider regeneration aims in the town centre.

“The concerns of the neighbouring properties are noted. However, it is considered these concerns can be adequately mitigated by conditions suggested by Environmental Health.”

Comments(1)

<!–love Dr, colchester says… //–>
love Dr, colchester says…

3:30pm Wed 13 Apr 11

Thats good so people who have travelled a long distance to visit the Vaf white elephant,Can book into the Hotel and have a early night and beat the crowds..lol