I met with the Environment Agency in my capacity as the local MP recently. This meeting followed an online survey of residents which highlighted serious impacts on daily life, business and safety. I have received over 200 responses to this survey to date, with issues reported including: disruption to the Thames Path, a loss of leisure and business plus unsafe, inaccessible 4-mile diversion route.
During the meeting, I pressed the Environment Agency on the delays. They accepted that the inspection wait was too long and confirmed they are now “laser focused” on reopening the bridge. They pledged to explore options to shorten the diversion and bring it closer to the river and to investigate working with Bisham National Sports Centre to use their land for a temporary diversion route.
Anna Burns the Thames Area Director said:
I am pleased the work to remove the central section of Temple Bridge will begin on 29 September as the first phase of the works to restore a bridge crossing for the local community. We plan to share outline designs for a refurbishment or replacement of the bridge in Spring 2026. In the meantime, we will work with the local community to review the footpath diversion and will provide regular updates through our engagement site.