Temple Footbridge replacement could cost £10m

The cost of replacing a pedestrian bridge over the River Thames could rise to £10m, after it was closed for safety reasons.

The Temple Footbridge near Marlow, Buckinghamshire, was shut in May 2023 after the tropical hardwood began to decay.

Residents have previously expressed frustration over the closure, mourning the loss of a vital walking route.

A much cheaper alternative was displayed at an Environment Agency event in Marlow, diverting walkers over an existing bridge further down the river at Hurley Weir.

Access to some of the adjacent land would be required, with this option estimated to cost about £30,000.

The Thames Path Partnership is proposing the route, with support from the Environment Agency.

Much of it would follow existing footpaths and public rights of way.

Under the proposal, the agency would open access across Hurley Weir and negotiate a short stretch of access with a landowner, creating a safe connection away from roads.

Planning the route is complete, but the partnership is still seeking access agreements and consents.

The original Temple Footbridge was built in 1989 from tropical hardwood, which had an approximate design life of 30 years.

Its hazardous central section was removed in November 2025. Photographs displayed at the event showed decaying structural timbers and exposed bolts.

The figure for replacing the bridge was given as up to £10m, with both the funding source and timescale listed as unknown.

Meanwhile, the removed central section of the old bridge is being held at the agency's Caversham Depot.

The EA said it would be carefully dismantled over winter.

The timber could find a new purpose as benches or signs, be used on other projects, or be offered to partners.

Do you have a story suggestion for Beds, Herts or Bucks? Contact us below.

Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.