COLCHESTER’S Labour group has moved to quell dissent within its ranks over the stalled development of the town’s so-called Cultural Quarter.

After Alumno’s proposals for St Botolph’s were unanimously rejected by Colchester Council’s planning committee, Parliamentary candidate Tina McKay and group leader Tim Young met to discuss where the party goes next.

Despite originally sitting on opposite sides of the debate it appears the duo have buried the hatchet and an agreement has been reached to pursue further community consultation regarding the future of the site.

Mr Young was an outspoken supporter of the controversial scheme, which was opposed by many party members.

“We thought in light of the new reality of the committee’s decision we might need to look at it again,” he said.

“The Labour group has suspended its position whilst we engage with a number of groups in the community about what they want to see on that site.

“It gives us an opportunity to pause for thought and speak to the people who are effected about what they want.

“I never said it was a perfect scheme and if there is something better which can be funded then we should explore that.

“It shows we are going out and listening which is something the Labour Party wants to be known for and Tina especially promotes that.”

READ MORE: Tim Young on what's next for Colchester's 'Cultural Quarter'

Committee members chose to refuse the planning application, which included 336 student flats, an 87-bed Travelodge, retails units and public space in the face of unprecedented opposition from cross-party campaigners.

Councillors turned down the application on the grounds of a lack of public consultation, disabled access and design issues.

READ MORE: Planning committee unanimously rejects Cultural Quarter plans

Mrs McKay, who has replaced Mr Young as the party’s Parliamentary candidate, said public opinion had been firmly against the scheme.

She said: “This piece of land holds a place in the heart of many people and there is a desire to see a more fitting way to use it; one that celebrates and respects the historical features but also contributes to the character of the town.

“One of the main objections to this plan was that not enough public consultation had taken place. It is absolutely right residents are consulted and listened to.

“I have seen some really interesting alternative ideas for how the land could be used and hopefully we can reach an outcome that works for the many.”

Councillors and party members will run a listening exercise to shape the group’s future position.

However the future of the site depends on developer Alumno, which still has the right to appeal against the committee’s decision.

A spokesman told the Gazette a decision had not yet been made.

READ MORE: Alumno speaks out after St Botolph's plans are rejected