Marsh Lock Horsebridge update from MP

Update from Freddie van Mierlo

I would like to share with you the latest information on the Thames Path closure at Marsh Lock, which has been in place since 2022. 
 
In comparison to previous inaction, within just twelve months of my election, there has been a major shift: the question of ownership and responsibility for the bridge has been resolved, funding has been secured to begin work, and the project is now underway.
 
The Environment Agency has appointed an experienced engineering consultant, one that has previously worked with them on high-consequence assets.  This appointment marks the start of the design phase of the project, which the Agency has set a completion date for of 31 March 2026.  This design stage will produce the engineering plans required for the construction phase, including the introduction of necessary weir protections. While the timetable may at first appear lengthy, it is important to get right. I am conscious that this is a dangerous section of river and the bridge will be used by a wide range of people.
 
I’m pleased that the pressure I placed on both the Government and the Environment Agency has provoked action.  By ensuring that every relevant voice was heard and working closely with every stakeholder nationally and locally including productive collaboration with Henley Town Council, I have been able to impress on decision-makers both the strength of community feeling and the economic consequences of the closure.
 
However, despite this success I must be clear that the future is still uncertain. Current allocated funding will only cover the design phase. Implementation will need to be funded through ‘partnership’ with other organisations. The Environment Agency has appointed further staff to the project experienced in identifying and raising external funding and will work tooth and nail with them to raise this money. The final figure required will only be known once the design is complete but previously has been suggested to be in the region of £2.5m.
 
I’d like to inform you that the Environment Agency has now set up a dedicated microsite where progress updates can be monitored as they happen. This will provide residents with a direct way to track developments as the project moves through each stage.
 
Following conversations with the Culden Faw Estate I have also facilitated conversations between the estate and the Environment Agency and am looking at if the previous more suitable diversion generously first installed by the estate can be re-established. The work here is early but I want to let you know that I am leaving no stone unturned.
 
In summary, after years of inaction, Marsh Lock Horsebridge is finally on the road to reopening. Setting expectations is important, and the road untravelled is likely to be years, not months. But please be reassured that the project is advancing, and I will continue to keep you informed as further milestones are reached.

Best wishes,

Freddie
 

Posted by: Ian Gallen | 06/10/2025 3:25 pm

How do we access the EA 'dedicated microsite where progress updates can be monitored as they happen'? 
I continue to find it impossible to comprehend why it is necessary to spend so much money on consultants for a new design and then some £2.5m on the actual project. Why not just replicate the existing bridge? It's been perfectly satisfactory for longer than anyone can remember. It's unlikely to even need to bear the weight of horses these days. Please no flash modern structure! Look what happened to the Temple footbridge and, indeed, the fate of the River & Rowing museum. 

Posted by: Nicholas Blandy | 06/10/2025 8:25 pm

Thanks for all your work on this Freddie, it is appreciated by all those who are unable to use the Thames Path between Shiplake and Henley.

Posted by: Barry Dyer | 06/10/2025 4:09 pm