An events programme run by the local authority in Colchester has generated nearly £24 million for the city economy over the last year. New data published on 26 March 2026 shows that Amphora Events, the events arm of Colchester Amphora Trading Ltd (a company wholly owned by Colchester City Council), attracted almost 300,000 visitors to the area during the 2024/25 period.
The report, compiled by independent consultancy Counterculture Partnership LLP, highlights that 179,000 of these attendees travelled from outside the city to participate in concerts, comedy shows, festivals, and civic gatherings. These events are held at key local sites including Charter Hall, Colchester Town Hall, and the Castle Park concert series.
According to the findings, £6.5 million of the total economic impact was driven by the Castle Summer Series, while Charter Hall contributed £6 million. Beyond the financial benefits, the research noted that attending live music events helps boost personal wellbeing by 21 per cent, a figure that outperforms other common activities like yoga or dog walking. Charter Hall also serves as a research and development department for the music industry, supporting emerging artists and technical skills.
Established in 2018, Colchester Amphora Trading Ltd was set up by the council to manage these commercial services. The success of the programme has led to a shortlisting for the LGC Awards 2026 in the Economic Support category. The consultancy described the initiative as one of the most successful council-owned programmes in the East of England.
This news arrives as the city prepares for significant administrative changes. The government confirmed on 25 March 2026 that Colchester will join Braintree and Tendring to form a new unitary council by April 2028, as outlined on the Colchester City Council website.
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