Thames Path footbridge reopened after two years closed

Ten Foot Bridge between Buckland and Chimney, near Witney, has been shut for a long period of repairs by the Environment Agency.

It was first closed in March 2024 following an inspection, due to ‘numerous structural and safety concerns’.

Ten Foot Bridge, connecting Buckland to Chimney across the River Thames, near Witney, has reopened after two years shut (Image: Charlie Maynard)

Now, Charlie Maynard, MP for Witney, has shared that he is ‘completely delighted’ to see Ten Foot Bridge reopened to pedestrians.

The MP said: “Completely delighted to see that Ten Foot Bridge has finally been repaired after being closed in spring 2024.

Ten Foot Bridge, connecting Buckland to Chimney across the River Thames, near Witney, has reopened after two years shut (Image: Charlie Maynard)

“Many thanks to the Environment Agency for completing the work and everybody who pushed so hard to get this done, it’s really appreciated.

“Enjoy crossing from one side to the other, but please don’t celebrate by jumping off it – it’s not safe!”

The Environment Agency has been approached for a comment on the bridge reopening.

Ten Foot Bridge, connecting Buckland to Chimney across the River Thames, near Witney, has reopened after two years shut (Image: Charlie Maynard)

The agency earlier said the project was planned as part of a wider programme of ‘competing priorities’ across the non-tidal Thames, which stretches from Gloucestershire to Teddington in London, associated with the river’s navigation infrastructure.

Bat boxes were removed from the bridge while the repairs were carried out, but the agency said they would be replaced once it reopened to support the protected species.

The bridge links the footpaths from Duxford and Buckland to the Thames Path adjacent to Chimney Meadows and the National Nature Reserve which is managed by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust, and which is a popular route with walkers.