Major infrastructure works around Colchester and Tendring continue to progress well and remain on schedule, councillors heard last week.
At its meeting on Monday, 26 January, the TCBGC Joint Committee reviewed an Infrastructure Update outlining progress on major transport schemes that will support the new settlement.
A key focus of this work is the development of the Rapid Transit System (RTS), an enhanced public transport network designed to provide sustainable and reliable connections to key destinations across the Colchester and Tendring area. Infrastructure works also include Phase 1 of the new A1331 Link Road to the east of Colchester.
Councillor Lee Scott, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning and Regeneration, and Chair of the TCBGC Joint Committee speaking after the meeting, said: “The Councils remain committed to establishing a successful, accessible, and environmentally responsible community. As the project progresses, the coordinated early delivery of key transport schemes will help ensure that future residents benefit from high-quality connections and facilities, supporting a thriving and sustainable Garden Community for generations to come.”
Significant transport improvements are already underway, including new segregated bus lanes, upgraded junctions, improved pedestrian and cycle crossings to support sustainable travel. The RTS will also support a new Park and Ride facility within the Garden Community. These early investments are essential to delivering the long-term vision and ensuring infrastructure is delivered at the right time as the community grows.
Construction also continues at pace on Phase 1 of the A1331 Link Road - a strategic route that will eventually connect the A120 with the A133. Phase 1 includes three new junctions providing access into the Garden Community, helping manage future congestion and enhance links across the wider network. The new roundabout on the A133 was completed in September 2025 and was opened as soon as possible to minimise disruption to road users. Work has since focused on the dual carriageway to the north, with surfacing works now largely finished. The full scheme is expected to be complete by summer 2026.
Phase 2 will extend the route to a new junction on the A120, completing the link between the A133 and the A120.Throughout 2025, Essex County Council (ECC) has worked closely with Latimer (the master developer) and Homes England to prepare a business case for further investment through the Government’s Housing Infrastructure Fund (HIF). A change to existing funding arrangements has been requested in order to secure an additional £65m of funding for the delivery of Phase 2. Under the Local Plan and DPD, planning permission for the Garden Community cannot be granted unless funding for the full A1331 Link Road is secured.
Local MPs have provided valuable support throughout the process, and discussions with Government officials have been positive. Councils are now awaiting confirmation of the outcome. Subject to approval, ECC would lead delivery, supported by a Cabinet Decision expected in the coming months.
