SUPPORT is growing for a replacement Wyndham Road footbridge in Salisbury after a leading disability campaigner publicly backed plans and urged residents to have their say in the consultation.
Kez Adey, chair of the Disability Interest Group of Salisbury (DIGS), has welcomed proposals for a new crossing over the A36, arguing that removing the bridge without a suitable replacement would create serious barriers for disabled people, families and schoolchildren.
In a letter backing efforts to rebuild the crossing, Ms Adey warned accessibility rules should not be used as justification for removing an important route.
She wrote: “The community deserves a safe, accessible crossing – not a dangerous diversion that places children and disabled residents in harm’s way.”
National Highways, which owns the bridge, says the existing structure is deteriorating, too low for modern standards and vulnerable to strikes from tall vehicles.
Earlier plans suggested Wyndham Road bridge could be removed without replacement – sparking strong opposition from residents worried about safety on the busy dual carriageway.
However, following community pressure and discussions with local representatives, National Highways is now consulting on plans for a replacement bridge.
The proposed replacement bridge. (Picture: National Highways)
The proposed crossing would be built on a similar footprint to the current structure, with taller safety railings, improved clearance over the road and slopes no steeper than those already in place.
Ms Adey said disabled residents, wheelchair users, visually impaired pedestrians, neurodivergent pupils and families with pushchairs could be disproportionately affected if the bridge disappeared.
“Removing infrastructure that is relied upon by disabled people, children, families and older residents, without offering a comparable replacement, is the very definition of creating a new barrier,” she wrote.
Work to replace the Wyndham Road footbridge – alongside the Victoria Road crossing – is currently planned for 2028-29 and could take around nine months.
The improved Victoria Road bridge. (Picture: National Highways)
Last week, National Highways brought their community engagement vehicle – ‘The Chatty Van’ – to Salisbury so residents could ask questions and speak directly with the project team.
People can continue to share feedback as National Highways develops the plans, with campaigners hoping strong public backing will help secure a fully accessible replacement.
Salisbury City Council has published information about the proposal and consultation on its website.
To view the plans, visit https://salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk/our…/consultations/..
The footbridge must be replaced. If it is not replaced you will no doubt find people/children attempting to take a “shortcut” across the dual carriageway.