A POPULAR footpath running alongside the River Colne has reopened to the public almost two years after a part of the quayside started collapsing.

A part of the riverside path, which links Hythe and Rowhedge, was closed in the interests of safety in December 2020.

The closure followed the subsiding of part of the Fieldgate Quay on the south side of Haven Road, Colchester.

Metal steering attached to the bank began to detach from the bank.

Colchester Council engaged in talks with specialist engineers to work out what repairs would be needed.

At the end of May, specialist contractor Squibb Group began clearing the nearby former CTruk Marine Services site.

This clearing enabled a section of footpath to be diverted through the site, after ownership of the land returned to the council earlier this year.

Following repairs to an existing fence and the installation of new fencing, walkers can now enjoy safe access along the entire length of the path between the Hythe and Rowhedge, in both directions.

Gazette: Cllr Lee Scordis, Cllr Mark Cory, Cllr Anna Appleyard Chair of East Donyland Parish Council, and Cllr Adam FoxCllr Lee Scordis, Cllr Mark Cory, Cllr Anna Appleyard Chair of East Donyland Parish Council, and Cllr Adam Fox

Mark Cory, councillor responsible for resources, said: “I would like to thank everyone involved in the reopening of the footpath, but especially the public for their patience.

“We recognise how frustrating the footpath closure was to regular users while we looked at options for a safe diversion.

“I use this path myself and know how much it means to many residents, so I am glad we have now found a solution.”

Mr Cory said the council will continue to work “at pace” to explore long-term options for revamping the quayside.

“Work continues as we explore the long-term options for regeneration, environmental and public realm improvements to the quayside and to repair the riverbank in a way that is both sensitive to local ecology and the needs of walkers and other river users,” he said.

“We are especially keen to explore a range of potential nature-based solutions and to consult with the public before deciding on the best one.

“We will of course continue to provide further updates as and when significant progress is made to complete this important work.”