Letter: Removing structure a bridge too far for Brockenhurst folk
We have just learned that Forestry England has resurrected its intent to remove the bridge across the river at Martin’s Road, Brockenhurst (A&T 4th April) – first raised in 2021 and strongly opposed by the local community.
If proceeded with, this could have disastrous consequences and a huge loss of an important local amenity. The bridge in question is used daily throughout the whole year by numerous local people and visitors to the area – walkers, dog walkers, runners and children.
It is on the footpath route to the Black Knowl area of the Forest from the north-east of Brockenhurst, in particular from the Balmer Lawn area and constantly used by campers at the Holland’s Wood campsite, now managed by Forestry England. It is used daily by residents and visitors alike from the eastern side of the village and the crossing is shown on maps and guide books of the footpaths on the Forest. Records show that a crossing has existed at this location for circa 100 years.
Has Forestry England carried out the necessary survey of its current use, had a proper engineering survey of its condition, considered the legal status of such a bridge and, crucially, prepared a professional risk assessment of the consequences of its removal? If they have, they should made available for public scrutiny as in the event of consequences arising from the decision, they could be relevant to any legal proceedings arising.
If they have not, they should do so as a matter of urgency before finalising any decision about retention of the bridge. Without the bridge all pedestrians from the east side of Brockenhurst, many of whom are children and many with dogs, will have to access Black Knowl and it's associated footpath network to Bolderford Bridge and beyond by walking along Meerut Road and navigating the extremely dangerous sharp bend near the previous Cloud Hotel and then cross the road bridge – neither of which have footpaths.
The very sharp bend is already extremely hazardous to pedestrians due to the extent of traffic and the excessive speed of vehicles. Increased use by pedestrians would be an accident waiting to happen. The financial and budgetary pressures on entities such as Forestry England are fully recognised and the need to reduce costs is understood. However, the bridge in question is fundamentally sound and the cost of its maintenance and remedial work required to meet safety requirements is trivial when compared to the safety implications of forcing a substantial increase in pedestrians having to use Meerut Road at such a dangerous location
By comparison, considerable expense has been occurred in the vicinity within the forest at Black Knowl towards New Park, replacing a sizeable wooden bridge across a ditch and a substantial bridge across the river which are off the beaten track, known of by few and hardly used by anyone. If cost is the primary driver of the intention to remove this asset, which is of such importance to the community, consideration should be given to residents having the opportunity to raise the funds required. Forestry England is requested to urgently and seriously evaluate the consequences of the removal of the bridge and reconsider its decision.
Chris and Bernadette Daniels
Brockenhurst
