The Grade II listed Balkerne Water Tower, the largest surviving Victorian municipal water tower in England, is set for a major transformation.The iconic structure will be restored and redeveloped into a fully accessible visitor destination, offering a unique heritage experience. Reports Contract Journal
Constructed in 1882 using 1.25 million bricks and 142 tonnes of cast iron, the tower was decommissioned in 1984 and has stood unused for more than 40 years.
Pre-construction activity is now underway, with the main construction phase scheduled to begin in December 2025.
The restoration is being led by North Essex Heritage, which secured a 150-year lease on the site in 2021.
The project is being funded through support from the UK Government, Colchester City Council, Historic England, and The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Mike Coleman, operations director at McAlpine Special Projects, said the team would draw on its expertise in working with historic buildings to preserve the tower’s original character and architectural significance.
The design team features conservation architect Purcell and heritage consultant Focus Consultants.