Members of the public may notice a little less water in the River Medway in Tonbridge this week as a result of essential engineering works being carried out.

The Environment Agency is purposely lowering the level of water in the river in Tonbridge to allow repair works on Buley's Weir - a part of the system that manages the water.

However, as the water has lowered, a strange variety of items have been making an appearance.

The weir regulates flow to help manage flood risks, ensures the town has fresh drinking water, makes sure the sewage treatment plant works properly and keeps a healthy level of water in the rivers for ecological purposes.

However, there are several cracks in the structure, which, if left, could cause it to collapse.

This would significantly affect the river and all the functions the weir provides. It would also mean that the footbridge would have to be closed.

As the water has lowered Tonbridge flood warden, Carl Lewis, has become concerned about the amount of debris in the river. He is worried about potential problems that could occur.

He said: "Seeing all of the debris, trolleys, signs and so on in the river is worrying. I was just taking a walk past there this morning and was very shocked.

"I am going to speak to the Environment Agency about this as it could cause blockages and flooding risk in the future.

"There was even a pedestrian sign in the river. I'm pretty sure people don't walk in the water, but there you go. The EA need to come down and inspect the river whilst the water is low, it seems like a good opportunity.

"Either that or it needs to schedule a date in the future when they know the water will be low again."

Investigations into repair work began in March. EA officers began digging into the weir to investigate the extent of the damage, and the results were used to decide how to repair it.

Engineering works were due to begin over the summer, but were delayed as a result of bad weather.

In order to carry out the work staff will need to dam off the Botany Stream so the work can be carried out in the dry. The flow will be maintained by pumping water over the works in a bid to protect the environment and ensure the sewage works continue to function.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: "An investigation into the condition of Buleys Weir earlier in the year discovered the brickwork to be in poor condition and the foundations did not meet modern standards.

"We appointed Team Van Oord to design and construct a new weir, and the plans were subsequently approved by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council."

"An investigation into the condition of Buleys Weir earlier in the year discovered the brickwork to be in poor condition and the foundations did not meet modern standards" - Environment Agency...

"Work began at the site on September 22, and this week we lowered the flow on the river to replace the coffer dam gate. Once the working area has been made safe and dewatered, work will begin to demolish the existing structure.

"Structural sections of the weir and wing walls will constructed by Christmas."

It is estimated the project will be completed by the middle of March 2015.

The spokesperson added: "We are keen to keep the disruption to a minimum and will be using the quietest pumps available.

"We will need to close the footbridge over the stream to carry out the works safely, but we have put a diversion in place via the High Street.

"We understand that construction works can be disruptive and we apologise in advance for any inconvenience our works cause. We have tried to put measures in place but if there is something we have overlooked, please let us know."

The repair work is part of a £7 million flood scheme by the EA.

For more info visit: www.environment-agency.gov.uk