Buckinghamshire Council Scrambles to Repair Damaged Footpath After Ecological Threats

As of September 29th, 2025, a popular walking route in Buckinghamshire has been forced to close temporarily due to significant structural damage caused by invasive crayfish and tree roots. The affected footpath, which runs between Kitty's Bridge in Waterside and the railway bridge over Moor Road in Chesham, has been weakened over the years by natural and ecological pressures.

Investigations revealed that the concrete riverbank supporting the path had leaned approximately 25 degrees towards the river, posing a serious risk of collapse and flooding. The roots of an old elder tree and a dense bramble thicket had split the bank, allowing water to leak into Moor Marsh. At the same time, non-native signal crayfish had burrowed under the foundations, further undermining the structure.

In response, Chesham Town Council has approved a £15,698 emergency repair project to address the damage and restore safe access for the public. The work will involve infilling the base with large flints, topping with aggregate, and resurfacing the path with new tarmac. Environmental checks, including a water vole survey and consultation with the Environment Agency, have been carried out before the repairs begin.

The council spokesperson warned that there is currently no effective control method for signal crayfish, and they will continue to cause damage along the concrete riverbank. However, the prompt action taken by the authorities is expected to avoid higher costs and ensure the path can be reopened to the public in the near future.