Two Brews and Watsons Brewery plans met with opposition

Paul Stephens, who runs the popular beer and coffee shop Two Brews, and brewer Mark Watson, of Watsons Brewery, plan to join forces on the project, which would see the former Buddhist centre, in Manor Road, Colchester, given an overhaul.

The duo initially plan to move Two Brews from its current Crouch Street home into the top floor of the two-storey building before transporting Mr Watson’s micro-brewery into the outbuildings.

They also hope to convert the bottom floor and garden into a tap room, where visitors will be able to sample Mr Watson’s wares alongside speciality coffee.

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Their plans have been submitted to Colchester Council’s planning department.

Since the proposals were submitted, 15 objections have been lodged.

Residents E&M Dell have pointed to the threat of "continual noise and disturbance" and also warned of "customers smoking or using their phones outside" and "regular and continual interruption" of their daily lives.

Their objection states: "The applicants should be considering regenerating a more central location which is better prepared to support noise, late openings and alcohol consumption and related issues."

Christopher Mark's objection states: "This is a quiet residential road and as such I believe not a suitable location for a microbrewery/shop for the sale of alcoholic beverages."

He also cited a perceived threat of antisocial behaviour and "unpleasant" smells associated with brewing.

Rose Clark added: "Many ordinary families live here and the disruption, noise and traffic would spoil their lives."

Both Mr Stephens and Mr Watson have offered to meet with residents and have openly stated there is no intention of the business becoming “a late night venue detracting from town centre venues”.