RADICAL plans which could transform Colchester’s former Debenhams shop into a go-karting track and trampoline park have been revealed.
The blueprints submitted by Flip Out will see trampolines installed on the ground floor and the first level used for “retail”.
The second floor could then be dramatically refurbished into a 3,755 sq. m. go-karting course where drivers can zip round the once busy department store in Culver Street West.
Debenhams has laid empty since it closed in May 2021 after 34 years of serving shoppers in Culver Square.
A planning application was submitted to Colchester Council today seeking to change the use of the site from retail to a go-karting course.
Documents read: “This will allow Flip Out to operate the unit as part-trampoline park and part-go-karting course.
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“The ground floor and first floor will continue to operate under Use Class E [retail], and 3,755 sq. m. on the second floor will be converted into a go-karting course.”
The whole premises will be operated by Flip Out which is a leisure entertainment brand offering a “trampoline and adventure park experience”.
Sam Good, of Our Colchester Business Improvement District, said the plans will help to mould the future of the city centre.
He added: “This an exciting development for Colchester city centre and shows a huge vote of confidence from a growing national company to invest.
“Flip Out is a well respected brand with high levels of growth in the UK.
“With it taking over the entirety of the former Debenhams building, this development will mould the future landscape of the west end of the city centre.
“When engaging with the public recently, a large percentage of respondents have talked about wanting more activities for families and young people. This new premises will provide that and more.
“We must also remind ourselves that there isn't a retailer in the UK investing in premises of this size so this development is a great change of use."
Colchester Council’s planning committee will determine the plans.
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