THE future of a historic bridge in Clacton is being decided over the coming weeks.

A new report is being prepared on the way forward for the 103-year-old Venetian Bridge, which is eroding and in need of repair.

Due to the potential cost of the work, Tendring Council has decided to consider a number of options which are currently being put into a report to be discussed by the cabinet over coming weeks.

It is unknown how much work could cost, but at least three options are expected to the considered.

Commercialisation boss Nick Turner, said: “It’s all about coming up with the right scheme and the best way forward at the right time, and a number of options will be considered.

“They’re currently being put together so we have all the facts in front of us when we come to make our decision.”

Repairs were carried out to the structure in 1999 and 2000 as part of a facelift for the seafront and gardens.

But it is the third time the scheme has been delayed since July 2014 when a piece of the structure crumbled away and moisture leaked into the bridge.

An emergency tower was put in place as a precautionary measure and remains there today.

The programme of repairs were earmarked for completion at the end of October 2016.

It was postponed because of fears the work would have an “unacceptable impact on seafront footfall and a potentially serious adverse impact on trade for businesses”.

Mr Turner promised that whatever decision is taken this year will not involve work being carried out during the main holiday season.

One carriageway of Pier Gap remains open to traffic at all times.