The Pickstock group is developing the site with the group’s contracting arm JR Pickstock overseeing work.

The 779 student room pods on the job have been manufactured using off-site techniques ready for assembly on the King Edwards Quay project.

Essex Police were called to the site yesterday morning where the victim was pronounced dead by paramedics.

JR Pickstock told the Essex Chronicle: “It is with regret to confirm that there was a tragic incident on our development site in Colchester this morning.

“The incident involved an employee of the principle contractor for the project Urban Summit Ltd.

“As the client we are unable to comment any further information at this point in time.

“The investigation into the cause of the accident is with the police and the Health and Safety Executive have been informed.”