DRONE footage has unveiled the scale of damage to a crumbling quayside in Colchester.

Part of the River Colne quayside, on the south side of Haven Road, Colchester, has started subsiding, with the metal steering attached to the bank starting to detach from the bank.

Colchester Council was forced to shut the adjoining footpath, which links Hythe and Rowhedge, in November to investigate the scale of the problem.

The quay has been gradually collapsing further towards the Rive Colne whilst there is also a hole appearing in a concrete section of land behind.

Drone footage captured from the air shows the scale of the damage, with residents concerned it could lead to an environmental disaster if the water pipes in the area are damaged.

Here is the drone footage:

It had initially been hoped the footpath would only remain shut for a period of weeks, however, due to the severity of the issue, it is now expected to be shut for several months.

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Colchester Council said it was working to complete repairs as soon as possible, but it was an "extremely complicated" project.

WATCH: Drone footage captures scale of damage to collapsing quayside

A spokesperson said: “Repairing this stretch of the towpath is an extremely complicated project.

"However, like the companies in the area and the people who use the footpath, it is a situation we want to get resolved as soon as we can.

“We are undertaking weekly checks on the condition of the path and there appears to be no further slippage since before Christmas.

“Specialist engineers are helping us uncover the extent of the damage and they are detailing the work that needs to be undertaken.

"With their help we are developing a timeline for the potential works and how long the path may be closed as a result, which we will share publicly.

"As part of this we also need to consider the impact on the businesses and communities using the local area and the effect on the surrounding biodiversity.

“It is not going to be a quick fix, and unfortunately the footpath is likely to be closed for some considerable time."

Fencing has been installed to keep the public out

The footpath, popular amongst dog walkers and the like, is set to remain closed for many months.

The spokesman added: “Sadly, there is no viable diversion that people can use around this area of towpath because it is in an industrial area.

"We know it is frustrating for those who use the route but while the path remains closed, we urge people not to use it for their own safety.”