The National Trail organisation has advised us that Temple footbridge has been closed by the environment Agency as of today.
This of course has a massive impact for those of us who enjoy a walk along the river – getting to Hurley and behond that way is no longer possible.
The bridge will remain closed whilst the Environment Agency assess different options, including full replacement. Replacing the deck could affect the integrity of the structure, so further assessment is required. The closure is like to remain in place for the rest of the year.
They also quoted a statement from the EA:
“Due to safety concerns we have had to close Temple Footbridge from today, Monday 15 May, until further notice.
Temple Footbridge enables pedestrians to cross the River Thames just upstream of Temple Lock near Marlow, and forms part of the Thames Path.
Although we carry out regular structural surveys of all our bridges and other structures, the condition of the bridge’s deck boards appear to have deteriorated more quickly than anticipated.
We now need to assess what work is required to return the bridge to safe condition.
We cannot say at the moment what the timescale for that might be, but we are well aware of the inconvenience the bridge closure will cause to the local community and will look to resolve the issue as soon as we can.
We are working with the relevant agencies to put an emergency diversion in place, and will communicate the route as soon as it is agreed.“
This diversion, as things stand- is basically to walk along the road from Marlow through Bisham.
National Trail website: https://www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/short-routes/temple-bridge-closed-thames-path-on-diversion-may-2023-onwards/
