Topping out has taken place at Colchester’s ambitious £6.25 million Digital Forum development.

Due to open in Autumn, the Digital Forum will offer a space for digital businesses, entrepreneurs and creative.

The development at 43 Queen Street has attracted strong interest from the tech sector. It offers 10GBps fibre, 5G infrastructure, private studios, co-working spaces, and dedicated rack space for data-heavy organisations.

Supported by business support agency Colbea, the building will act as a launchpad for second-stage tech firms and scale-ups.

Simon Mead, chief executive of Colbea, said: “The topping out of the Digital Forum marks a bold step forward for Colchester and for the UK’s growing network of tech-enabled cities.

“We’re incredibly proud to be part of a project that is not only transforming the city centre but redefining what’s possible outside traditional tech hotspots.“The forum offers state-of-the-art infrastructure, unbeatable connectivity, and a vibrant business environment – all right here in Colchester.

“With over 2,000 skilled digital professionals already living and working in the area, we’re excited to welcome ambitious companies ready to scale in a place where talent, innovation and quality of life come together.”

Delivered by main contractor Horizon Construction Group, the Forum is designed with bespoke architectural elements inspired by the historic Theatre Royal, once located on the same site.

Partners from Colchester City Council, We are Colchester and Essex County Council, celebrated the topping out.

Cllr David King, leader of Colchester City Council, said: “The Digital Forum, following on from the nearby regeneration of St Nicholas Square, is another transformation that will help bring business and vibrancy into the city.

“The building complements our plans for St Botolph’s Quarter and Circus, where we are improving the look and feel of our city centre as a place to live, work and visit, a hub for innovation, culture, and commerce.”

Pictured (l-r): Julia Cameron (director Inkpen Downie), Simon Mead (chief executive of Colbea), Paul Coleman (senior associate for Daniel Connal Partnership), Dave Richards (structural engineer for Conisbee) and Steve Tilley (Horizon Construction group commercial director).

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