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Historic Bridge Closure Sparks Thames Path Diversion
21 May
Summary
- An 18th-century bridge in Henley, Oxfordshire, closed in 2022 due to safety concerns.
- Thames Path walkers face a significant three-mile detour following the closure.
- Restoration costs exceed £2.5m, with partial crowdfunding necessary for funding.
Designs have been unveiled for the restoration of the Marsh Head Horsebridge, an 18th-century structure in Henley, Oxfordshire, which was closed in 2022 due to safety concerns. The bridge, originally built in 1796, connects Henley with the village of Shiplake.
Its closure has resulted in Thames Path walkers facing an inconvenient diversion of an extra three miles, involving steep hills and main roads. The Environment Agency has stated that the restoration project, estimated to cost over £2.5 million, will require partial crowdfunding as government funds alone are insufficient.
Further funding will be sought from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, local councils, and private donors. The proposed design will largely resemble the original bridge, incorporating guard piles for protection against river vessels. The Environment Agency explained that crowdfunding is necessary because the bridge is not considered an 'operational asset' like locks or weirs, which receive priority for funding.
