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Bridge Update 



Great news! It seems that Southwark has come up with a way to restore Cox's Walk footbridge without removing the two oaks.Here is the update from the Southwark council website.


Update

We remain committed to the decision made last year to deliver a scheme that honours the Tree Protection Orders (TPOs) put in place by our Planning team. Made for the two mature oak trees adjacent to the west side of the footbridge. The trees are protected and their future is secure.

The footbridge itself has remained closed to the public whilst work is done to consider various options and determine a solution. This solution will also addresses the essential repair works to the footbridge.

We have thoroughly reviewed all the feasible options to refurbish the footbridge using the following criteria: 

  • restoring the bridge in the form that meets its historic status
  • retaining the two oak trees adjacent to the western abutment
  • minimising removal of trees for the access for plant and machinery
  • minimal effect on the fauna in the area
  • ideally ensures costs are minimised as practicable as possible

The review of the site, together with additional site inspections has now successfully established a permanent solution that covers the main objectives and criteria, this is as follows:

  • full refurbishment of the footbridge with additional steel portal frames located in front of the existing abutments and wing-wall construction to the side of the bridge. The visual context of the upper wooden frame of the bridge remains un-altered and intact
  • the frames will be supported on screw pile foundations to mitigate impact to the root network of the two mature oaks
  • this proposal retains the two oak trees adjacent to the bridge in line with the decision made in 2021
  • this proposal also includes the provision of a permanent concealed maintenance ramp for the bridge for these works. This will support all future maintenance of the structure in the years ahead, to ensure no further impact on the mature oaks, the bridge structure and the woodland bed once these works are completed and further planting is completed

The next step is to undertake a public information and engagement meeting, which will be used to advise all interested stakeholders on the details of the proposal to be implemented. It is proposed to hold the meeting in May/June. All stakeholders will be contacted in advance and local residents invited to attend.

The intention is the works will be undertaken in October 2022 following the end of the bird nesting season.

You can see the complete section relating to Cox's Walk Bridge here....

https://www.southwark.gov.uk/transport-and-roads/highways-defects-and-improvement-maintenance/bridges-subways-and-walls?chapter=3


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