Jumbo Water Tower

[3] Inside the central pier are 157 steps to a cupola which at 35.37 metres (116 ft) above ground offers views a long way over Colchester and the surrounding area.

In September 2011 a subsequent planning application to convert the tower into a penthouse, flats and restaurant was rejected by Colchester Borough Council by 7 votes to 5.

[11] In December 2021 the tower was leased by Paul Flatman to North Essex Heritage for a 150 year term.

The Trust plans to adapt the tower to house a restaurant, visitor experience and historical interpretation space.

[12] In April 2024, comedian Griff Rhys Jones, also the President of The Victorian Society, gave his support to the restoration project.