Footpath 36 - Burston - Temporary Bridge update
Dear Residents
Cllr Andrew Mynors, Staffordshire County Council, has provided the following update:
Update: Temporary Burston Footbridge
I wanted to provide a further update on the situation with the Burston temporary footbridge and outline where things currently stand.
All the preparations for installing the temporary bridge are now complete, and our teams are ready to begin work as soon as weather and ground conditions allow. This temporary structure is the quickest way to reopen Sandon and Burston Public Footpath 36 while the new permanent bridge continues to be built off‑site.
As you will be aware, we had originally hoped to install the temporary bridge earlier in the autumn. However, the legally required approval from the Environment Agency was not received until December. Since then, the ground around the site has become heavily waterlogged due to repeated wet weather, making it unsafe for the heavy machinery needed to move the bridge sections, prepare the ground, and set the temporary foundations.
This specialist equipment is essential for ensuring the bridge is installed safely and to the correct standard. Attempting to access the site in its current condition would risk damaging the structure, surrounding land, and potentially lead to further delays. For this reason, we must wait for conditions to improve before work can begin.
Once the temporary bridge is installed, the footpath will be able to reopen to the public while the permanent replacement bridge progresses. When the permanent structure is ready for installation and the ground is sufficiently stable, the temporary bridge will act as a safe working platform during construction before being removed.
We recognise the continued frustration locally and share that disappointment. I want to reassure you that all permissions, designs and components are now in place. We are monitoring the ground conditions closely, and the team will move on site at the earliest safe opportunity.
In the meantime, Footpath 36 between the River Trent and Burston Lane will remain closed to protect public safety.
I will provide a further update as soon as we are in a position to proceed.
Kind regards
Cllr Andrew Mynors