A TEMPORARY bridge will not be installed over the river Colne in Colchester’s Castle Park following the collapse of a historic weir, it has been revealed.
Brickwork from the Middle Mill Weir at Castle Park in Colchester fell into the River Colne in December, resulting in the ongoing closure of a nearby footbridge as a safety precaution.
Representatives of Colchester Council, the Environment Agency, Essex County Council, the Canoe Club and residents met to discuss the future of the weir this week.
It is understood that the cost to repair the weir and bridge could be more than £500,000.
Proposals for a temporary bridge have been shelved as it has proved "unfeasible" due to the River Colne’s width.
But a survey will be undertaken in the coming weeks to confirm whether it would be safe for the public to use the old footbridge next to the nearby cricket club, which is owned by the council.
A spokesperson for the city council said: “A structural survey of the footbridge by the Cricket Club has been commissioned and will take place in the coming weeks.
“Initial investigations into temporary bridge solutions proved unfeasible due to the River Colne’s width.
“To facilitate safe removal procedures, a 3D survey of both the weir and bridge has been commissioned and will commence in the coming weeks.
“Collaboration with Essex County Council regarding the bridge remains ongoing.
“A follow-up meeting will be held in July to present future proposals for the weir, including associated costs and timelines. Reopening the bridge remains a priority for the council but is contingent upon the completion of safety assessments.
“In the interim, we are working with ECC to improve signage for diversions and implement more robust measures to prevent vandalism.
“We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as we navigate this process. Updates will continue to be provided as they become available.”
Castle ward councillor Steph Nissen said the Environment Agency has reported the current situation is not increasing the risk of flooding.
They said not replacing the weir would not have any adverse effects and the agency would not be pushing for a replacement, she added.
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