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Colchester City Council and Essex Highways are pleased to announce that the reopening of the Middle Mill footbridge will take place in the afternoon on Saturday 13 September, restoring a vital pedestrian and cycling link in the heart of the city.
The bridge, which has been closed since the collapse of the nearby weir in December 2023, will once again open to the public following a 12-week programme of essential repairs. The project was delivered by Essex County Council’s appointed contractor, with Colchester City Council contributing to the funding in recognition of the bridge’s importance to the local community.
The reopening will be especially welcome news for pedestrians and cyclists, and a relief to those with mobility issues who have faced a lengthy diversion during the closure.
The works included structural reinforcement of the bridge, stabilisation of the riverbed using steel sheet piling, and the safe removal and reinstatement of key steelwork components. The Environment Agency has confirmed that the absence of the weir has had no negative environmental impact. Water levels have remained stable and have not caused any structural issues in the surrounding area.
No decision has yet been made regarding the future of the weir or the boating lake it once fed. Various options are still being considered, considering environmental factors and the constraints of limited funding.
While the bridge is now fully operational, some final aesthetic works remain outstanding - specifically, the completion of the brickwork. These finishing touches are expected to be completed by the end of next week, subject to weather conditions.
During the works, a time capsule buried in the year 2000 was uncovered. In a symbolic gesture, the capsule will be reburied at the site for future generations to discover.
Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: "We’re thrilled to see the Middle Mill footbridge back in use. This has been a difficult specialist job to deliver, and a long wait. But it is great to see completed, as the bridge is not just a crossing – it’s a connection between communities that allows us all to enjoy our riverside and castle park to the full.’
Cllr Tom Cunningham, Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure, and Sustainable Transport at Essex Highways, said: "The collaboration between Essex Highways, Colchester City Council, and the Environment Agency has been key to ensuring the bridge is once again safe and accessible for all."
“We thank everyone in Colchester for your patience whilst the repairs were carried out, this has been a complex repair, and it is a testament to the collaboration between our parties that it was delivered safely and successfully.”
Colchester City Council and Essex Highways extend their thanks to residents and local stakeholders for their support throughout the project.
Page last reviewed: 12 September 2025