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Cheltenham Borough Council Accused of "Buried Head" Over Closed Footbridge

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A long-standing debate has been ongoing between Cheltenham Borough Council and residents over the closure of the Pilley Footbridge in Charlton Kings, which has been shut for over a decade since 2015. The campaign group, Pilley Footbridge Action Group, claims that the council has ignored the closure, while the council blames Gloucestershire County Council for maintaining the bridge. Local residents and campaigners are calling for the council to take responsibility and reopen the footbridge, which is an essential part of the Gustav Holst Way.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Pilley Footbridge has been closed since 2015 due to safety concerns, affecting residents who use the Sandy Lane play area.
  • The bridge is a vital part of the Gustav Holst Way, a medium-distance route that goes through places linked to famous composer Gustav Holst.
  • John Kadwell, co-ordinator of Pilley Footbridge Action Group, said there have been two structural engineer reports quoting high cost solutions to repair or remove the bridge.
  • Campaigners suggest that an up-and-down footpath might be a more financially viable solution.
  • Cheltenham Borough Council has been accused of ignoring the closure for over ten years.
  • County highways cabinet member Joe Harris has offered to work with the council to repair the bridge or explore alternative solutions.
  • Chas Townley of Open Spaces Society emphasized the need for the council to take responsibility for the bridge.
  • Cheltenham Borough Council states that Gloucestershire County Council is responsible for maintaining the footbridge.

Statistics:

  • Over 3,750 miles of public rights of way are maintained by Gloucestershire County Council, including more than 2,600 footbridges.
  • The Gustav Holst Way route spans several places linked to famous composer Gustav Holst.
  • The Pilley Footbridge has been closed for over a decade since 2015.
  • Two structural engineer reports have been conducted over the last ten years, suggesting high cost solutions for repair or removal.

Sources:

  • Gloucestershire Live, Cheltenham Borough Council accused of ignoring closure of Pilley Footbridge for over 10 years
  • Open Spaces Society, Campaigners call for Cheltenham Borough Council to reopen Pilley Footbridge
  • Cheltenham Borough Council, Statement regarding the Pilley Footbridge
  • BBC, Gloucestershire County Council, responsible for maintenance of Pilley Footbridge, Cheltenham

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