Major repair work on the river wall at Fieldgate Quay is nearing completion, following a significant investment by Colchester City Council to restore safety and stability to this vital area of The Hythe. Led by the council and delivered by contractors Henderson & Taylor, the project has focused on stabilising the quay by installing new sheet piles to replace those which had collapsed, addressing structural damage caused by corrosion and a failed anchor system.
The £988,000 repair project, which began in August, has spanned approximately 60 on-site working days and is on track for completion in January 2025. This first phase addresses the 2020 collapse of a 15-metre section of sheet piling, which raised urgent health and safety concerns, including the closure and re-routing of a public footpath.
Councillor David King, Leader of the Council and Chair of the Hythe Task Force, said: “We are pleased to see the repair works at Fieldgate Quay approaching completion. This is a critical step in restoring an essential piece of infrastructure, ensuring the safety of our community, and supporting the future resilience of this area.
“Fieldgate Quay has presented complex challenges, requiring significant investment and detailed planning to address years of deterioration. The progress made is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of everyone involved.
“This project isn’t just about repairing what was lost; it’s about creating a safer, more sustainable future for the quay and the residents and businesses who rely on it. With Phase 1 nearing completion, we are already looking ahead to Phase 2, which will focus on re-naturalising the remaining 235-metre stretch of the quay site and reinstating public access, in line with our vision for a greener, more accessible Colchester.”
On-site work for Phase 2 is expected to begin in early-summer 2025, subject to statutory approvals. Regular updates will continue to keep residents informed as the project advances.
Page last reviewed: 19 December 2024