Save Colchester High Street

Following the shocking news in 2022 when M&S announced they were closing their store on Colchester High street, We decided to start this campaign. initially  our mission was to get M&S to see they are making a big mistake. Their policy to move into out-of-town retail parks is flawed on many levels. You can read more about that below.

Our mission is simply to raise awareness, and to help people to fall back in love with their Town and City Centres! Find us on Facebook and support our mission. We are Save Colchester High Street

Colchester City Centre is more than just the heart of Britain’s oldest recorded town — it’s the living, breathing hub of community life, shopping, culture and history. From the bustling Colchester High Street to the iconic Colchester Castle, the city centre is packed with reasons to visit, enjoy and support.

We may no longer be actively negotiating with M&S to return to Colchester City Centre, We’re still campaigning for Colchester City Centre. our volunteers work hard to actively promote the benefits of Colchester City Centre, from shopping to restaurants and cafe’s to entertainment and events, Colchester has so much going for it. tell is in the comments what you like about Colchester…

Colchester is a city that looks to the future as much as it honours the past. Major Colchester regeneration projects are already underway to enhance the High Street and public spaces, improve transport links, and bring heritage sites back to prominence. The Colchester City Centre Masterplan is investing millions into making the area greener, more accessible, and even more welcoming for shoppers, families, students and businesses.

The Colchester High Street is home to a lively mix of national retailers, but what makes it truly special is the growing number of independent Colchester shops and businesses. From boutique fashion and antiques to quirky gift shops and family-run cafés, the city centre offers experiences you simply won’t find online. Combined with Culver Square, Lion Walk, and Trinity Square, Colchester shopping gives you a balance of convenience and character.

When it comes to food and drink, the city centre doesn’t disappoint. Colchester restaurants, pubs and cafés serve everything from international cuisine to traditional Essex favourites, making the High Street a place to meet, eat and spend time.

Colchester isn’t just about shopping — it’s about culture too. The Mercury Theatre, Colchester Arts Centre, Firstsite Gallery and Castle Park keep the city centre vibrant year-round. Add in festivals, live music, markets and community events, and you’ll see why Colchester City Centre is the cultural heart of Essex.

Few city centres offer as much green space as Colchester. Castle Park, riverside walks and open gardens provide natural beauty right alongside the High Street. This makes Colchester City Centre not only a place for shopping and work but also for relaxation, family days out and wellbeing.

With city status, ambitious regeneration plans, and a proud mix of history, culture and commerce, Colchester High Street and City Centre have an incredibly positive story to tell. Supporting local businesses, protecting heritage landmarks and making use of the shops, cafés, and attractions ensures the heart of Colchester continues to thrive for generations.

Colchester is more than just a city — it’s a community. And its City Centre is worth every effort to save, celebrate and support.