MPs and Cllrs disappointed that original reopening date was missed
John Baron MP, Stephen Metcalfe MP and Cllr Kevin Wingfield have today welcomed news that the Varde Bullers footbridge in Laindon is due to reopen on 26th August. John, Stephen and Kevin met the Network Rail team in Parliament in May and have been working with Network Rail to get the bridge reopened as soon as possible. The bridge was originally closed in October 2020 to allow works to take place to strengthen the structure and make it safe for pedestrians to use. The original planned reopening date of 12th July was missed.
John said:
“This footbridge has been closed for far too long, causing inconvenience to local residents. It is disappointing that the original planned reopening on 12th July was missed but it is important that all safety considerations are met. I welcome the news that it will reopen on 26th August.”
Stephen said:
“Despite the delay, I am pleased this saga is coming to an end and that residents will once again have access to this important route to and from the station. Thanks to our collective efforts we can finally put this issue to bed.”
Cllr Kevin Wingfield said:
“Following our meeting with Network Rail in May, residents were relieved to hear that works would finally be getting underway to repair the bridge after months of delays. The slippage in completion date is frustrating, but we recognise safety has to come first. Let’s make sure the job gets done properly and we can all looking forward to being able to use the bridge again soon.”
Notes to Editors:
- If you have any questions or concerns, there is a 24-Hour National Helpline on 03457 11 41 41, or visit www.nationalrail.co.uk/contactus.
- Please see the last press release about this issue available at https://www.johnbaron.co.uk/news/john-baron-mp-and-stephen-metcalfe-mp-varde-bullers-bridge.
