Bosses at Colchester Council will debate three possible options for Middle Mill Weir, which collapsed more than six months ago. 

Colchester Council’s scrutiny committee will meet on July 9 for another update on the weir and connected bridge in Lower Castle Park. 

Once all options for longer-term solutions have been researched, they will be presented to the cabinet for a decision. 

Three options have been identified, including a replacement with a smaller weir structure to hold water levels slightly higher upstream, replacing the weir with a structure similar to the original, or removal of the structure for a 're-naturalisation' of the river. 

Further surveys are currently being carried out to provide the council with specifications for the removal of the damaged and washed-out sections of the weir, including the last remaining pillar. 

These surveys are considered time-sensitive and should “happen sooner rather than later”. 

Some sections of the remains are salvageable, but the first two options would require the Environment Agency’s approval. 

The Environment Agency has indicated that there is no preferred option, but the removal of the artificial structure would come with an ecological benefit. 

Representatives of Anglian Water say a rebuild as close as possible to the original design is their preferred choice. 

Essex Wildlife Trust and the Essex and Suffolk Rivers Trust both support the removal option. 

Members of Colchester Canoe Club want to see the weir replaced and suggested the new design should ensure the water is held as high as previously and have the capacity to create a wave for use for white water and play boat training. 

The CO1 North Residents' Association and the Riverside Residents' Association favour the option where the weir is rebuilt as close as possible to the original. 

They also noted that although the weir is not a listed monument, it is in a conservation area and comes with special considerations for upkeep and preservation.

They claimed the naturalisation of the riverbed was a “cheap option” rather than driven by environmental reasons. 

A spokesperson for Colchester Council said: “We are committed to finding a sustainable, long-term solution for Middle Mill Weir that considers the needs of the environment, the local community, and heritage.

“While formal costings are still under development, the agenda paper aims to inform the Scrutiny Panel on the initial community and professional bodies’ responses to the options presented.

“Public safety remains a top priority, and further surveys are underway to determine the exact specifications for removing unsafe sections of the weir, including the remaining pillar. This work is essential regardless of the final decision on the weir's future.

“We understand the significance of the Middle Mill Weir to Colchester's heritage and character. All options will be carefully evaluated alongside their environmental impact and how they align with the needs of the local community.

“The Scrutiny Panel meeting will be an opportunity to delve deeper into the community and professional bodies’ feedback, allowing for a more informed decision-making process.”