Colchester Delivers 100 Affordable Homes in First Six Months of 2026
Colchester City Council has delivered 100 affordable homes during the first six months of 2026. The figure forms part of its latest half-year performance report, which covers housing, regeneration and improvements across the city.
Between April and September, 37 affordable homes were delivered through partnerships with Registered Providers. Another 13 came through the council's own housebuilding and property acquisition programme. A further 50 homes were secured through Section 106 agreements with developers.
The figures come amid continued pressure on housing and homelessness services. The council is also working to increase the availability and quality of temporary accommodation. As of 31 October 2026, its services were supporting 616 households facing homelessness.
Alongside these efforts, the council is consulting on its future Local Plan. The plan is intended to help address housing needs across Colchester.
Regeneration projects move forward
Housing is one part of a wider programme of work across the city.
Several regeneration projects are progressing. Work at Trinity Square is advancing, with completion expected in early 2027. Construction is also underway at St Botolph's Circus and along the East Hill Cycle Route.
Residents have also been invited to share their views on proposals for a new bus station interchange.
Neighbourhood improvements feature in the report as well. Five play parks have received upgrades, while work continues on the Heart of Greenstead project. The council has also maintained its commitment to restoring the boating lake at Castle Park.
Support for households and local communities
The council reported that 3,311 households received help between April and September 2026. The assistance included financial support, energy advice and essential household provisions.
Other work includes improvements to neighbourhood health and care services, alongside measures to address fly-tipping and strengthen waste management.
Colchester's heritage projects have also continued. These include roof works at Colchester Castle and funding approval for the restoration of the Lion Walk Mosaic.
Council Leader Cllr Paul Dundas said delivering 100 affordable homes was a positive step, although further work remained necessary to address housing demand.
The half-year performance report is scheduled for consideration by the Scrutiny Panel on 11 November, followed by Cabinet on 2 December 2026.
