ONS labour-market data for August show fewer openings, falling payroll employment and private-sector pay growth lagging the public sector. The picture for Colchester and Essex employers is tighter recruitment demand…
UK inflation edged back up to 2.9%: what Colchester and Essex firms should watch before the Bank’s September decision
Official CPI rose in the year to July after months of cooling. Bank Rate remains 3.75% ahead of the 17 September MPC announcement, with energy volatility still the main uncertainty…
What Colchester’s draft Local Plan means for local firms’ premises, land and growth
The Regulation 19 Submission Draft sets employment land, town-centre and infrastructure policy to 2043. Consultation closes at 4pm on 13 October 2026 – the economic picture for Colchester and Essex…
Seafood first: Favoloso’s evening Italian on Balkerne Passage
Independent city-centre restaurant near Jumbo and the Mercury, currently open for dinner Wednesday to Saturday In the shadow of Colchester’s Victorian water tower known as Jumbo, and a short walk…
Mercury Theatre: A Theatre in the Centre of Colchester
An overview of the Mercury Theatre and its role in Colchester The Mercury Theatre is a theatre and performing arts venue in Colchester, Essex. It is located at Balkerne Gate,…
The Olive Branch – Wivenhoe
Syrian café The Olive Branch still serves Wivenhoe from Station Road Subhead: Independent Middle Eastern vegetarian and mainly vegan food near the station, with a food hygiene rating of 5…
Mighty Oak Brewing Company – Maldon
Mighty Oak: Maldon microbrewery, High Street taproom and Essex-hopped ales on the way Subhead: Cask and bottled real ales from Spital Road since 2001, plus a micropub on the High…
Premises and planning checklist for Colchester firms
Practical steps on leases, fit-outs, change of use and designations, habits that remain useful long after the Local Plan consultation closes. Colchester City Council is advancing a Submission Draft Local…
Rising Energy Costs: How Businesses in Colchester Can Reduce Their Energy Bills
Rising and unpredictable energy costs continue to be an important consideration for businesses across the UK, including companies operating in Colchester and the wider Essex area. For businesses with offices,…
Making Tax Digital for VAT: What Businesses Need to Know in 2026
Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT has become an established part of the UK tax system, requiring VAT-registered businesses to maintain digital records and submit VAT returns using compatible software.…