Colchester City Council is pleased to confirm that repair works to the damaged footbridge at Middle Mill are due to begin on Tuesday 27 May, following months of technical preparation and collaboration.
The works are being delivered by Essex County Council through their appointed contractor, with Colchester City Council contributing a share of the funding in recognition of the bridge’s importance as a key pedestrian link in the city.
The bridge was damaged due to the collapse of the nearby weir in December 2023. Since then, the Council and its partners have undertaken extensive surveys and technical assessments to fully understand the site conditions and determine the most appropriate repair solution. More recently, the Council also applied for and secured the necessary permit from the Environment Agency to proceed with the works.
The repair project will ensure the bridge is made safe and secure for public use once again. Works are expected to take around 12 weeks, finishing in August 2025.
To enable the repairs, temporary site set-up will include relocation of existing fencing and concrete barriers. A short section of footpath near the bridge will be closed, and pedestrians are kindly asked to use alternative routes during the works.
Supporting works will include the installation of steel sheet piling downstream of the footbridge to stabilise the riverbed and prevent further erosion. Tonne bags will create a dry working area, and a pumping system will manage water ingress. The steelwork beneath the bridge will be removed and stored securely while the bridge itself is repaired.
Some vegetation clearance is required to allow access for machinery, including the removal of one willow tree. The tree was surveyed and confirmed to contain no active bird nests. A replacement tree will be planted during the next suitable season.
Cllr Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Waste, Neighbourhoods and Leisure, said: "This is welcome news for residents who have been waiting for these bridge repairs. The footbridge at Middle Mill is a key route, and these works will ensure it’s safe and usable again. I want to thank residents for their patience and understanding while this important work takes place."
Colchester City Council is working closely with Essex Highways and contractors to deliver the works safely, efficiently and with minimal disruption to the surrounding area.
Page last reviewed: 22 May 2025