A planning statement claims that the former Co-op, located off Long Wyre Street in Colchester, Essex, “made no positive contribution” to the city center and has been unoccupied for a period of years.
Colchester, according to co-partner Jo Palmer-Tweed of The Dragonfly Lounge, is a “drag rich” city that requires a location specifically for the LGBTQ+ community.
By March, she wanted to have the new location operational.
The goal, according to Ms. Palmer-Tweed, was to open a pub that was “as inclusive as we can possibly make it” while simultaneously serving as a drag act training ground.
Natalie Sommers, the portfolio holder for communities, heritage, and public protection at Colchester City Council, described the plan as “a testament to the growing diversity and vibrancy of our city”.
The neighboring museum, Firstsite, had provided venues for possible pop-up events, and Ms. Palmer-Tweed noted that the people had been “incredibly supportive”.
Unit B, once the loading bay of a Co-Operative retail store on Long Wye Street, is the subject of the planning application.
A declaration of intent stated: “The property has been vacant for several years, so has made no positive contribution to the vitality or viability of the city centre in this time.”
Furthermore, it stated that the location would assist in “resuscitating an almost entirely” rather than just being “a regular drinking establishment, of which there are many.”
