Colchester Castle relocated to Kent to make way for new housing

Colchester Castle has been dismantled and relocated to Kent to make space for a new housing development, it has emerged.

The decision, described by officials as a “bold step forward in urban planning,” has sparked outrage from locals who were unaware of the plans until construction crews arrived at the historic site earlier this week.

The 11th-century Norman castle, which has stood in Colchester for nearly a thousand years, was moved in sections to an undisclosed location in Kent overnight.

Authorities insist the relocation was necessary to meet government housing targets, with developers arguing that the space was “underutilised” and could accommodate at least 400 new homes.

“We appreciate that Colchester Castle is a site of historical significance,” said a spokesperson for Colchester City Council, “but at the end of the day, we have a responsibility to provide much-needed housing. Besides, Kent has plenty of space, and we’ve been assured that the castle will be just as appreciated there as it was here.”

Many residents were caught off guard by the sudden disappearance of the castle. Witnesses say the operation took place under the cover of darkness, with hundreds of lorries seen carrying large stone blocks down the A12 in the early hours of the morning.

“I woke up and thought something felt different,” said lifelong Colchester resident Sheila. “Then I looked outside and realised the castle was gone. I couldn’t believe it – they didn’t even leave a plaque or a hole in the ground.”

Others expressed frustration at the lack of consultation. “How do you relocate a castle without telling anyone?” asked local history enthusiast Darren. “This isn’t a garden shed — it’s a massive, ancient fortress! What next, moving the Roman Wall to Ipswich?”

Despite public outcry, officials insist the move was necessary and beneficial for all involved. However, confusion remains over the castle’s exact new location, with some reports suggesting it has been temporarily stored in a field near Faversham while “logistical challenges” are addressed.

One Kent councillor, who wished to remain anonymous, admitted there had been some initial confusion over the delivery.

“We had a call saying ‘your castle has arrived,’ and we thought it was a joke,” he said. “Turns out, no, they actually sent us a castle. We’re currently figuring out where to put it – we’re thinking somewhere near Bluewater, but that’s not confirmed yet.”

Historians and heritage groups have condemned the decision, with the Colchester Historical Society calling it “one of the worst planning decisions in British history.”

English Heritage has also expressed concerns, stating that relocating a Norman castle with no preservation plan could have “significant consequences for its historical integrity.”

“There’s a reason castles aren’t meant to be moved,” said Professor Harrington, an expert in medieval architecture. “They were built to stay put. This sets a dangerous precedent – if we start relocating historical landmarks for convenience, what’s next? Stonehenge on wheels?”

With no sign of the castle returning to Colchester anytime soon, residents are left wondering if their city will ever be the same again. As for Kent, they now have a brand-new ancient castle – whether they wanted it or not.