The UK’s lockdown has transformed the way that we both live and work.

Our usual office desk space has been swapped for the kitchen worktop, bedroom dresser or a dining table in the conservatory. Businesses of all types have had to adapt to, and embrace, the concept of working from home, as it becomes the “new normal”.

Moving forward, as the government eases restrictions, it looks likely (if not certain) that homeworking will be maximised. This is inevitably leading to businesses reviewing their premises arrangements and looking at possible downsizing and/or relocating to reduce commercial rents. There may also be a need for some industries to relocate closer to staff, in order to stagger the working day, to ensure continued social distancing in accordance with expected government guidance.

It is, therefore, no surprise that we have already started to receive enquiries from businesses considering relocating their operations to Colchester and the surrounding areas, with many enquiries received from London based businesses.

Colchester, the oldest recorded town in the UK, with a rich history and diverse culture, is located approximately 60 miles north east of central London and boasts strong commuter links by both rail and road into the City. For those future, increasingly rare, occasions that it is needed to travel into London, the rail commute between Colchester and London Liverpool Street takes just 49 minutes.

In addition to excellent transport links, Colchester Borough Council recently secured a £3.3 million investment from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport  (DCMS) to bring brand new, gigabit broadband connectivity to Colchester – the investment was confirmed by the DCMS on 24th April 2020. As a result of this investment, Colchester will be able to provide leading infrastructure and a hub for businesses to operate from. It is therefore likely that this key investment into the local area, will attract commercial investment, businesses and individuals to the area, especially as we all start to take advantage of new technologies and settle in to a different, but exciting, way of working.

If you, or your business, are considering relocating to Colchester or the surrounding areas, please contact Commercial Property solicitors, Stewart Nicholson (01206 719639) or Joanna McKenna (01206 719326) for a free no-obligation chat to see how Ellisons can assist.