Colchester Middle Mill bridge remains closed 150 days later

In December, a large section of the Middle Mill weir in Colchester Castle Park crumbled into the River Colne.

As a result, its nearby footbridge and a section surrounding the site were closed off as a safety precaution, remaining shut ever since.

Today, Wednesday, May 8, marks 150 days since the incident and subsequent closure.

Frustrations from residents are growing as to when the bridge will reopen.

Frustrated - Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell (Image: Public)

Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell said: “There is no sense of urgency, no hint of “action this day” as was the rallying cry of Winston Churchill.

“The performance of the council has been pathetic.

“The latest is they hope to have reports from experts in July, another two months, making it probably 200 days by then.”

Colchester Council said following its latest meeting with Environment Agency and Essex County Council colleagues to provide an update on the situation at Middle Mill Weir, the  Environment Agency confirmed the current condition of the weir “does not pose a flood risk or endanger local wildlife”.

“A structural survey of the footbridge by the Cricket Club has been commissioned and will take place in coming weeks,” a spokesman added.

Aftermath - the damaged weir in Castle Park (Image: Newsquest)

“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.”

The council said a follow-up meeting will be held in July to present future proposals for the weir, including associated costs and timelines.

Reopening bridge remains a 'priority'

The spokesman continued: “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 Essex County Council 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.”