Fight continues to save picturesque wood bridge
RESIDENTS are still fighting to save a picturesque wooden bridge, but Lincolnshire County Council says it is unsafe and needs replacing.
People in Pode Hole are up in arms at plans to replace Jobson’s Bridge, off Clay Drove, with a 150,000 structure which they have branded a “metal monstrosity”.
They feel the metal bridge will spoil the area’s character and are trying to get the wooden footbridge listed to protect it - but are pushed for time with work due to start in September.
The bridge has no historical protection and is not in a conservation area so its replacement is classed as highways maintenance duties and does not need planning permission.
Residents met with MP John Hayes, who says the plan to replace the bridge is “unacceptable” and wants to help get the bridge listed.
Mr Hayes said: “We really do have to start standing up for the character of our local landscape, understanding the historical quality of the drains and dykes of the Fens as a whole that characterise our area, and this bridge over the Vernatt’s is part of that heritage.
“It would be monstrous in my judgement for us to cast that aside and I will be writing to the county council saying that.”
Lincolnshire county councillor William Webb, who is highways portfolio holder, says he has looked at an alternative design but it is not suitable for the site.
He said he has a responsibility to make sure structures are safe and comply with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA).
The Vernatt’s Drain may also be opened up to recreational users as part of a waterways project in the future.
Coun Webb said: “There are all sorts of hoops we have got to jump through.
“I know it is not to the satisfaction of everybody but we have got to try and reach a solution that is to the satisfaction of as many people as possible.
“I can see where the residents are coming from but although it is picturesque it is unsafe and a like-for-like option is just not available to me.”
He has written to residents and will meet with them next week to explain why the decision was taken to replace it.
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Weather for Spalding
Saturday 04 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: -2 C to 1 C
Wind Speed: 24 mph
Wind direction: South
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Sunny spells
Temperature: -2 C to 3 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
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