Castle Park boating lake remains closed due to impact of weir collapse

Colchester City Council has announced the temporary closure of the boating lake in Castle Park, as part of its commitment to keeping residents and visitors safe, especially during the busy summer months. 

Following the collapse of Middle Mill Weir in December 2023, the natural water flow into the lake has been disrupted. As a result, the lake can no longer be automatically refilled. Previously topped up using water from the weir, the lake is now damaged and not fully sealed, meaning any manually added water would quickly drain away – making regular refilling financially unjustifiable. 

While permanent low-height barriers are due to be installed in the coming days, temporary safety measures have been put in place in the interim. These include temporary fencing around the deepest drop near the drainage area, to ensure the park remains as safe as possible until the full barriers are delivered and installed. The permanent barriers will surround the empty lake, which presents a fall-from-height risk when dry. These measures ensure we are doing everything possible to keep the park safe and enjoyable for all. 

Cllr Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Waste, Neighbourhoods and Leisure, said: “We know how much our residents and visitors value the boating lake, particularly in the summer months, so this is not a decision we’ve taken lightly. However, the safety of our residents and visitors must always come first. With the collapse of the weir and the resulting impact on water levels, keeping the lake topped up is simply not feasible. We’re now focusing on ensuring the area is made safe while we assess longer-term options for this much-loved feature of Castle Park.” 

Castle Park was officially opened on 20 October 1892 by the Lord Mayor of London and has served generations of Colchester residents as a place for leisure and celebration. It is unclear whether the boating lake formed part of the park’s original design, but it has served as a popular spot for recreation and relaxation for many years. While its closure is disappointing, the Council is actively exploring long-term solutions, balancing community value with financial sustainability. 

We thank residents and visitors for their understanding and will provide further updates as more information becomes available.