Longslade bridges to be replaced five years after being shut

A PAIR of derelict New Forest footbridges which have been at the centre of rows between cyclists and walkers are being replaced after a five-year wait.

The crossings at Longslade, near Brockenhurst, are on a popular trail used by bike riders, walkers and horse riders which runs over the disused railway track at Longslade.

Forestry England blocked them off due to safety concerns, forcing users to navigate two steep gravel paths down and up an embankment to bypass them.

Work to replace them was due to begin at the end of November and last around two months.

FE previously claimed the delays to mending the bridges were due to having to carry out wildlife surveys and gaining planning permission.

Longslade Bottom and Longslade View car parks will be closed during the works.

The cycling route will also be shut between way-marker number 217 at Latchmoor Bridge and way-marker 195 at Setthorns campsite.

Charlotte Belcher, community manager for Forestry England, said: “The old railway line running through the Forest is a popular and much-loved feature.

“By removing and replacing these two bridges we are making a significant investment in the future of this special place to walk, cycle and horse-ride.

“We hope to minimise closures during this time and look forward to being able to welcome people back to the improved trail.”

As reported in the A&T, the closure sparked conflict with walkers and horse riders accused cyclists of speeding up and down the paths, leading to several near misses.

Some bike riders were also alleged to be taking part in a challenge to see how fast they could go up and down the paths.

Christine Day, of New Milton, who had a near miss with cyclists, said she feared “someone might get killed” unless the bridges were repaired.