Jumbo Water Tower, Colchester, Essex

In 2005, AOC Archaeology Group recorded one of the country's largest Victorian Water Towers, in advance of repair and alteration. This opportunity arose from an ambitious plan to reuse the historic structure by creating residential accommodation.

The ‘Jumbo’ water tower in Colchester is Grade II listed and was constructed in 1882 by Colchester Borough Council who at that time had recently taken over control of the town's water supply. The tower was designed by the Borough Surveyor and Engineer, Charles Clegg in the Italianate style. In order to be converted into a single residence, substantial structural changes were required, including a new lift providing access to the upper floors. Due to the nature of its significance archaeological remediation was required to record the structure before undergoing the necessary structural changes that the conversion necessitated.

AOC Archaeology Group successfully designed and implemented a programme of investigative recording, in consultation with the Local Authority Conservation Advisor. The tower was described, drawn and photographed by an AOC building recording team prior to any alterations or repairs in order to record original features. This programme of works thus satisfied the planning condition, respected the cultural significance of the tower and kept the clients’ costs to a minimum.

AOC Project Manager: Les Capon
Client: Private Client