Nicholas Coombes joined local walkers and ramblers in celebrating the re-opening of Quarry Road footbridge. The bridge has been recently replaced by the university after a three year absence.

Since the original bridge was closed in 2005 the campaign for its replacement has been at times tortuous, but ultimately successful. Cllr Coombes raised the matter personally with the vice chancellor and has involved the council’s Regulatory & Access Committee. The committee chair, the chief executive of BathNES and other ward councillors had also written to Bath University demanding action. A local group, celebrating yesterday, had threatened legal action to re-open the footpath.

“I am disappointed that the University chose not to use the winner of the student design competition,” said Cllr Coombes, “but at least this bridge is now open. While working for the bridge’s replacement, I have tried to keep local residents informed about progress and also to tell the University know how this was harming their reputation. I hope that we can start to build greater understanding between the institution and its neighbours and we shall shortly be launching a Neighbours Forum to do this.”