New statistics have revealed that more than 30 percent of Colchester’s population is classified as obese, with the area ranking among the highest in England for obesity rates.
The data, published by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, was sourced from Sport England’s Active Lives Adult Survey, which tracks the physical activity levels of adults, young people, and children across the country. The survey examines obesity rates in England for the period 2023-2024, breaking them down by local authorities.
Out of the 317 local authorities surveyed, Colchester placed 42nd highest, with 33.5 percent of its adult population affected by obesity. This marks an increase from previous years, with obesity rates standing at 31.9 percent in 2022-2023 and 19.7 percent in 2018-2019.
Alice Turburville, a Slimming World Consultant and Team Developer in Stanway, Colchester, acknowledged the concerning figures but stressed that there is community support available for those wishing to lose weight. “In the past year, members of my Slimming World group have collectively lost 221 stone, and I’ve seen members overcome serious health issues such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease by adopting healthier habits,” she said. The group meets weekly at Stanway Rovers Football Club.
A spokesperson for Essex County Council also weighed in, describing obesity as a preventable issue. “Even one percent of the population being obese is too much,” they stated. The council launched the Essex Healthy Weight Strategy in May 2024, aiming to address the root causes of obesity by promoting healthier food environments and encouraging healthy lifestyle changes. “We are working with Colchester City Council to ensure health is at the forefront of planning for a healthier environment,” they added.
Among the 317 authorities, West Lindsey in the East Midlands topped the list with an obesity rate of 38.8 percent, while Camden in London recorded the lowest rate at 11 percent.
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