A MAJOR development in Colchester High Street is expected to be given planning permission tomorrow.

The Angel Court complex has been earmarked for transformation into shops, restaurants, offices and homes.

Colchester Council used to own the prime site and its planning committee has been recommended to approve the bid.

City and Country Group bought Angel Court from the council for £2million.

It has been largely empty since last December when council staff moved to offices in Rowan House, Sheepen Road, although the customer service centre and CCTV teams are still there.

Proposals include having shops, restaurants and offices, as well as a penthouse in the roof area. There would also be 32 parking spaces for residents and staff.

If approved, the atrium roof – replaced at a cost of £160,000 in 2006 because of a leak – would be removed.

There has been one objection to the plans, claiming they are an overdevlopment.

Planning approval is expected to be given if conditions, including £4,439 from the developer towards community facilities, are met.