Amphora Group has invested more than £1.6 million over recent years in Colchester City Council assets, citywide digital infrastructure, and vital support to help vulnerable residents stay digitally connected – investment made possible through the Group’s strong commercial performance and ability to generate income on behalf of the council.
As a wholly owned company of Colchester City Council, Amphora not only reinvests directly into local facilities and services, strengthening our public spaces and modernising our facilities, but also returns a financial dividend to the Council, helping to support frontline services and reduce pressure on Council finances.
Investing in Colchester’s venues and public spaces
Over the last two years, Amphora Events has invested just over £250,000 in council‑owned venues and assets, including improvements at Castle Park and Charter Hall.
These improvements are helping to attract more visitors, support local businesses and increase income opportunities, while enhancing accessibility and the overall experience for residents and visitors alike.
Recent works include upgraded seating and technical equipment at Charter Hall, alongside improved access routes and utilities in Castle Park to better support concerts, festivals and major community events.
Strengthening the city’s digital infrastructure
Alongside physical venue upgrades, Amphora Connect has invested nearly £500,000 over the past four to five years in Colchester’s digital infrastructure, including more than £200,000 during 2025/26 alone.
This investment has supported the expansion and resilience of the city’s digital networks, helping to futureproof council services, enabling more efficient delivery, improving connectivity for residents and businesses, and supporting economic growth across the city, including improvements to fibre infrastructure in locations such as the city centre and Mersea Island.
Supporting vulnerable residents through the digital switchover
In addition, Amphora run Helpline has invested £850,000 to upgrade analogue customer equipment and ensure households are ready for the national digital switchover.
This work has focused on supporting vulnerable residents by upgrading equipment in people’s homes and safeguarding access to essential services, helping residents remain independent while also reducing pressure on NHS health and care services.
Delivering social value and financial return
Together, these combined investments total £1.6 million, reflecting how Amphora delivers both social value and financial return.
By generating income commercially and reinvesting locally, Amphora plays a key role in supporting the Council’s financial sustainability, enabling continued investment in services, infrastructure and communities while helping to manage costs for residents.
Cllr Venessa Moffat, Interim Chair of Amphora, said: “This investment shows how we are taking a joined-up approach to improving Colchester, investing not just in buildings and infrastructure, but also in people. Whether it’s upgrading our venues, strengthening the city’s digital foundations or ensuring vulnerable residents remain connected, this is about building a city that is resilient, inclusive and fit for the future.”
Cllr Paul Dundas, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “Amphora plays an important role in helping the Council deliver for residents. As well as improving our venues, strengthening digital infrastructure and supporting vulnerable people, it generates income that is reinvested into local services.
“This means we can continue to deliver priorities for our communities while helping to manage financial pressures and protect value for money for residents.”