Colchester Foodbank unveils plans for new town headquarters

The foodbank has been raising money to help purchase a new HQ and expand its service across the town.

A planning application to convert a former Abbey Field pharmacy has now been submitted to Colchester Council.

Michael Beckett, chief officer at Colchester Foodbank, said it was all about “getting our ducks in a row” to prepare the foodbank to help more people.

Last year it helped more than 7,000 people and expects this to rise to 8,000 this year.

He said: “We would rather be closing the charity but if people are suffering we need to make sure we have the right approach.

“We are not empire building we are following the need unfortunately.”

The foodbank is in the process of setting up a venue in Greenstead and creating a family centre.

Mr Beckett added: “It is about having a spread across the town.

“People in Monkwick have an awful long way to go to access a foodbank.

“Abbey Field is about half way between New Town and the Hythe area.

“We think it is the right approach and we need to make sure we are meeting the need.

“We don’t want people to suffer.”

If successful it could take between six months and two years to get the building ready.

The team would then look to move from their existing home in Moorside Business Park.

Mr Beckett said the team was getting prepared ahead of Brexit as it was not sure what impact it would have.

The planning application said: “Colchester Foodbank has been seeking alternative premises to buy as a food HQ for some time.

“Any new location should be accessible and the location and accessibility of the pharmacy building is comparable to our current premises.

“It is desirable that a sensitive proposal like this is in a location where neighbours are sympathetic to Colchester Foodbank’s ethos.”

Colchester Foodbank set up in 2009 and has partner foodbanks in Brightlingsea and Wivenhoe.

The foodbank is open 10am to 2pm Monday to Saturday.

Colchester Council will have the final say on the plans by October.