Sad to see: derelict Hythe Quay, Colchester

[@dereksands7744]

Thanks for filming this Chris, it should have never been allowed to deteriorate like this!

[@HomemadeTV]

If they installed a tidal barrier downstream with a 25ft wide gate giving 3+ metres at high water, to open, say 1 metre each side of HW, then cleared the turning basin, it would allow them to put in some pontoons for visitors and maybe residents, too. Permanent water in the area would add hugely to the attraction of the area, and it could support some good recreational facilities.

[@nickoakley8465]

I have an office on the Hythe Quay (26). There is a lot of development going on, the quayside by the red lightship has been vastly improved, though the far reaches, where you have filmed have yet to receive attention. I understand there was a plan to keep the area 'at flood' and create a marina environment, but that wildlife would be adversely affected with the loss of regular tidal rise and fall. But it seems caught between two extremes - not a marina, and not navigable any more due to silting.

[@123kingcarp]

I used to work on a fishing boat out of the hythe many years ago.

[@HomemadeTV]

Long run down to the sea?

[@Bunce1949]

Very interesting Chris. It certainly looks in a sad and sorry state at the moment. Its surprising the opportunity has not been taken to enhance the area, as most towns and cities that have some sort of river frontage, have redeveloped them and increased tourism and footfall, and therefore business opportunities in the area. Its not a place I've visited myself, but having seen your video, I certainly won't be putting it on my "places to visit" list!

[@HomemadeTV]

I suppose the best thing is that the area is very much a blank page - and if they can get it right, it could be fantastic!

[@stevenwatsham5973]

It is a sad reflection on the local council.. So much more could have been done with the place if you compare what Ipswich has done with their abandoned docks... The place has turned into a total dump.. It could have been a real showcase for Colchester..

[@paulwatkins1405]

Dear Chris, what your film doesn't capture is the amazing community spirit along King Edward Quay. Also, whilst commenting that nothing has changed since 2008, you've neglected to film the laying on new power, water and communications underway during the time of your filming. A small step, maybe, and certainly more can be done. There is a growing sense of pride amongst this community of houseboats, evidenced by those who tend to the public flower beds, weed the pathways, collect rubbish from the river and do their best to make the area pleasant for all who visit. It is very unfortunate that a few, not most, boats are derelict along the Quay, this obviously reflects badly on those that are very well maintained. Probably also worth pointing out that a visit on a wet and windy day in October probably won't show the best of any area. Come back in the summer and we'll have a cuppa on the quayside and you can meet some residents here? We can show you another side of this Quay.

[@bobfinch1665]

It's not like that now, constant redevelopment is taking place.

[@HomemadeTV]

This is now, filmed Sunday 11 Oct 2020.

[@JohnRankin1943]

@@HomemadeTV Yep, was there a few days ago, just as you filmed it.

[@rambo3834]

And it stinks