Planners have unanimously rejected proposals to demolish a historic footbridge in Gerrards Cross.
Network Rail submitted an application to Buckinghamshire Council proposing to replace the bridge between Orchehill Avenue and Layters Way on November 3, 2021.
The proposals led to outcry from local residents, including from the Gerrards Cross Save Our Footbridge Community Action Group.
On September 27, 2022, Buckinghamshire Council’s South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee (SBAPC) rejected the application.
Councillor Trevor Egleton, chairman of SBAPC, said: “This application was refused by SBAPC on September 29. The council received more than 200 objections regarding the application, including an objection from Gerrards Cross Town Council.
“The proposal would have involved the total loss of an existing Non-Designated Heritage Asset, resulting in substantial harm.
“Committee members deemed that the design of the new bridge was not sufficient to preserve the character and appearance of the Conservation Area within which it lies.
“It should be noted that serious concerns were raised over the apparent neglect and lack of maintenance of the existing bridge. It was also considered that insufficient ecological information had been submitted with the application.”
A spokesperson for Save Our Footbridge said: “The plans were totally unsuitable for the Gerrards Cross Conservation Area. The bridge has been neglected for over 30 years and we are delighted that the planning committee has recommended its restoration. We look forward to working constructively with Network Rail on its sensitive restoration and preservation for future generations.”
Network Rail has been contacted for comment.
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