Residents and businesses can now rely on a permanent riverside route between the Hythe and Rowhedge, as Phase 2 of the Fieldgate Quay restoration is now complete – bringing to an end years of disruption caused by structural failure and temporary arrangements.
The works mark the final step in resolving damage first identified in 2020, when a 15-metre section of river wall collapsed due to corrosion and a failed anchor system, with further sections later identified as being at risk. Addressing the issue required more than a short-term repair. The scale of deterioration, the complexity of the site and the need for environmental approvals meant a carefully planned, phased programme of work over several years.
Following essential stabilisation work completed in early 2025, the remaining 235-metre stretch of the quay has now been fully restored, including re-naturalising the riverbank and reinstating the footpath along its original alignment.
Pictured, L to R: Mark Tang (Apex Ltd), Steven Sawyer (Henderson & Taylor), Cllr William Sunnucks, and Matthew Lynch (Henderson & Taylor)
From long-term problem to completed solution
For several years, this section of riverside was restricted, with access maintained only through temporary arrangements and no viable long-term diversion through the surrounding industrial area. The extent of structural damage and ongoing movement along the quay meant a comprehensive solution was required.
All sections of the damaged river wall have now been repaired, replacing a failing industrial structure with a stable, lower-maintenance river edge designed for the long term.
A route secured for the future
With permanent works now complete, the footpath has been fully reinstated, reconnecting its established access points on either side of the council-owned site.
This provides a more reliable, long-term route for residents, businesses and those moving through the area, replacing the temporary solution that had been in place.
It also represents a step towards a wider ambition to extend riverside access along the River Colne, with a longer-term vision – subject to feasibility, land ownership and environmental considerations – of linking through towards Cymbeline Meadows.
The former quay has been replaced with a naturalised embankment designed to improve stability and reduce long-term maintenance requirements, while supporting the surrounding river environment.
The new quayside
A necessary and significant investment
These works represent a significant but essential investment to address years of deterioration and ensure public safety. Completing both phases secures the future of this section of riverbank while providing a long-term solution for access through the site.
The project has been delivered by contractors Henderson & Taylor, with design support from Pell Frischmann, and in accordance with environmental requirements set by the Environment Agency and the Marine Management Organisation.
Cllr William Sunnucks, Portfolio Holder for Resources and Assets, said: “This has been a long-standing and complex issue, and completing these works means the damage at Fieldgate Quay has now been fully addressed. After years of disruption and temporary arrangements, people can now rely on a permanent and safe route through the site.
“Securing the route between the Hythe and Rowhedge on a long-term basis is a real, practical improvement for local residents and businesses. It also reflects a wider ambition to build on this in future, extending access further along the river where possible.”