COLCHESTER has been labelled the "relocation hub of choice" by a firm of commercial property experts.

Newman Commercial, which is part of the Fenn Wright Group, has just completed the lettings of three major industrial warehouse buildings in Colchester, bringing dozens of jobs to the town.

And the firm says the "significant transactions" show the town is becoming a hub for commercial premises across East Anglia and believes Colchester is well ahead of its nearby rivals.

Jeremy Newman, partner at Fenn Wright, said: "With the rise of new business initiatives and growth of commercial opportunities in the region, it’s an exciting time for Colchester.

"The interesting theme is that Colchester is the relocation hub of choice.

"Companies are carrying out their own due diligence and identifying this area as an industrial and commercial hot spot, which bodes very well, not only for businesses, but for the future of the town and surrounding areas.”

A 60,000sq ft warehouse in Wyncolls Road, on the Severalls Industrial Estate, has been let after being divided into two and undergoing refurbishment.

The premises was home to printing company Polestar, but has been empty since the firm went into receivership in 2016.

The two units will now be home to Phoenix Aromas and Essential Oils, which is relocating from Loughton, and expanding firm VegTrust Ltd, which moves in from the nearby Severalls Park.

Mr Newman said: "It is good news that this unit has been refurbished and successfully let to two companies who bring expanded employment opportunities within the Colchester Borough with both lettings achieving headline rents.”

A Dutch bakery ingredients manufacturer has also agreed to take on the lease of a 31,800sq ft unit at Easter Park, in Axial Way.

The firm, which has not been named, will be moving its headquarters from Billericay to Colchester.

In six months, Newman Commercial has let approximately 225,000sq ft of industrial space across seven sites and said there is very high demand for readily available commercial premises in the town at the moment.

Mr Newman said: "To have been able to agree seven major industrial warehouse deals in one year is a significant feat for any agent and one we are very pleased with.

“We currently have a list of applicants looking for good quality industrial and warehouse premises that are readily available for early occupation.”