Sydenham Park Footbridge

We are carrying out essential works to repair and refurbish Sydenham Park Footbridge so that it is safe for residents to use. The footbridge is used by a large number of people on a daily basis, including parents and children who use the bridge to access local schools.

Without carrying out these critical works the bridge is likely to be closed. This would make it harder for residents to walk or cycle around the borough, resulting in an increased number of car journeys and a negative impact on the environment. The refurbishment works will also address issues of public safety by improving lighting on the bridge, making it safer to use the bridge after dark.

In order to allow construction work to take place, one tree will need to be removed. Removing a tree is always a last resort and we have explored all possible options to avoid this outcome, including using a larger crane and delivering the new bridge span to site via the railway line. These options would have resulted in the removal of additional mature trees, delays to the project of up to five years – putting public safety at risk and increasing the risk of closure – and additional costs of over £400,000 – taking money away from vital local services at a time when we are already facing significant financial pressures, due to funding cuts from central government.

To compensate for the loss of this tree, we will be planting four additional trees. We will be working with local residents to agree the species and locations for these new trees.

The tree being removed will be turned into wood chips for use in our local parks, helping to minimise the environmental impact of its removal and retain the sequestered carbon.