Colchester residents call for quicker Middle Mill weir solution

The historic Middle Mill Weir, in Colchester Castle Park, fell into the River Colne back in December last year. 

According to Colchester Council bosses, heavy rainfall and high river flows caused significant deterioration to the structure.

Since then a near footbridge which connects lower Castle Park and Kings Meadow has been shut off to the public due to safety concerns. 

As a result, walkers and cyclists are having to embark on a length diversion one which could remain in place for some time while a decision over the future of the weir is made.

High Steward of Colchester Sir Bob Russell, has now urged council bosses to call on the Army to help them implement a temporary crossing. 

He said: “I fear it could be more than months – and that this time next year Middle Mill bridge will still be closed to pedestrians and cyclists.  

“It is one of the busiest non-vehicular routes into and out of the city centre, either via Castle Park or the Dutch Quarter to the High Street. 

“The council should be using what is called ‘Mutual Aid to a Civil Authority’ (MACA) – seeking the assistance of the military. 

“I also suggest the MP for Colchester should be asked to get the Army involved. 

“The Royal Engineers could erect a Bailey Bridge in a matter of days. That is what they are capable of."

The former Colchester MP also pointed out more than 40 years ago a bailey bridge was used to enable the Colchester Military Tattoo to take place each summer. 

“It would usually be in place for around four weeks – for the setting up, a week of performances, and the dismantling," he added.

“If this could be done then, why not now?” 

Colchester resident Larry Dagwell, meanwhile, said now would be a good time to put a sandbag dam in lower Castle Park. 

He said: "I am pretty sure it wouldn't cost too much and maybe conservationists may volunteer. The cost could be allocated to whoever at a later date.

“Meanwhile the river basin would be refilled with water allowing the wildlife to recover.

"Also, if nothing is done, this council might start building student homes along the riverbed.

“It seems they are making it sound a lot harder and more expensive than it should be - it should not be too hard to dam the sluice off and get a digger to clear the site.

"Why not a concrete pipe to draw the water? Why not a turbine to create a power source?”

Bosses at Colchester Council have now acknowledged the need for a solution sooner rather than later.

A spokesman said: “We appreciate Sir Bob Russell's concerns regarding the closure of Middle Mill bridge and the impact it has on the community.

"We understand the desire for a swift solution, and we acknowledge the potential benefits of a temporary bailey bridge as proposed.

“However, after careful consideration, we believe pursuing a bailey bridge at this stage is not the most appropriate course of action.

“Military Aid to the Civil Authorities (MACA) is not a readily available or cost-effective option in this situation. The criteria for MACA require the council to exhaust all other avenues before seeking military assistance.

“Additionally, MACA involves significant financial obligations for the council, including indemnification, insurance, and potential planning permission costs.

"Given the current budget constraints and ongoing project priorities, pursuing this route wouldn't be financially responsible.

“We are actively exploring alternative solutions, while the route across Middle Mill remains closed.

“We recognise the inconvenience caused by the bridge closure and apologise for the disruption.

"We remain committed to finding the best solution for the Middle Mill weir that balances the needs of the community, the environment, and responsible resource management.”