Wendy's and Greggs added to Northern Gateway Leisure Park line-up

Wendy’s and Greggs have been added to the Northern Gateway Leisure Park’s growing line-up of facilities and businesses.

The fast-food outlet and much-loved bakery brand will each boast a drive-thru on the site, which will encompass a whopping 200,000 square-feet.

The ambitious development, spearheaded by Turnstone Estates, was granted planning approval last December by Colchester Council.

The building of the vast network of leisure provisions, to be located south of the A12’s Junction 28, is set to get underway in the New Year.

Sue Lissimore, deputy leader of Colchester Council responsible for resources, has welcomed the addition of Wendy’s and Greggs.

She said: “We are delighted that these brands are committed to coming to Colchester, in what promises to be an exciting development.

“This progress furthers our ambition to transform the Northern Gateway into a hub for improved wellbeing, physical activity, jobs, housing and renewable energy.

“It is a key part of our commitment to boosting the local economy and helping our borough recover following the impact of Covid-19.”

As well Wendy’s and Greggs, the complex has already secured a 20-lane bowling alley from Hollywood Bowl and an indoor golf centre courtesy of Puttstars.

Jump Street will also be opening a climbing centre on the site and agreements are in place for Fastned to provide eight high-power electric vehicle charging bays.

Cineworld has also recently expanded its commitment to the project and will now open a 12-screen cinema boasting an enlarged foyer for a Starbucks.

Travelodge has also increased the size of its hotel from 80 to 90 beds and the scheme also includes seven restaurants, a high-quality, landscaped piazza and parking for 750 cars.

READ MORE: When work will begin on Northern Gateway leisure complex

Chris Goldsmith, managing director of Turnstone Estates, said: “These signings reflect occupational demand for this state-of-the art leisure scheme.

“Despite the recent pandemic which created uncertainty in the sector, we are delighted to welcome Wendy’s, Fastned and Greggs to the line-up and accommodate a larger offering from Cineworld and Travelodge.

“We expect to announce other lettings and a contractor shortly and start work on site in the New Year.”

The Turnstone scheme for the Northern Gateway Leisure Park forms part of a wider development delivered by Colchester Council and its Colchester Amphora companies.