Temporary bridge to be installed as flooded footpath reopens

Footpath number 5, which runs from Taylors Ride towards Corbett’s Hill Farm and then across the River Ouzel towards the Grand Union Canal by The Globe pub, was closed on January 26.

Central Beds Council put up closure notices revealed that access had to restricted due to “flooding and poaching of the surface”.

It apologised to users saying the closure should not be for more than 21 days, and added: “Unfortunately there is currently no alternative route until improvement works have been completed.”

Yesterday the path was inspected by the council and the impassable stretch had dried out enough to be re-opened, although it remains exceeedingly muddy to walk across.

A council spokesman said : “The footpath had been closed due to a stretch by the River Ouzel crossing being totally impassable.

“However, following talks with the landowner and the Environment Agency we will be installing a temporary bridge there and aim to have the footpath open by the end of the week.

“The signs will be updated to reflect this, and then we will be doing final work there in the summer.”