Further to our report on 7 September 2026 regarding the closure of the pedestrian footbridge between Winchester Road and Old School Close, a formal temporary closure order has now been secured, which can remain in place for up to 6 months.
Temporary Closure Order Issued for Ash Footbridge
Surrey County Council has made a Temporary Prohibition of Traffic Order affecting part of Public Footpath 354 (Ash), including the section crossing the railway via the footbridge. The order was made on 1 October 2026 and came into force on 2 October 2026. According to the notice, the closure is required “in the interest of public safety due to Network Rail engineering works.“
The development follows the bridge’s closure by Network Rail in early September. At the time, fencing and warning signs were erected at the structure stating: “FOOTBRIDGE CLOSED AHEAD – RISK OF FALLING THROUGH.” No detailed explanation of the defect or timetable for repairs was provided. Under the temporary order, the closure can remain in place for up to six months, meaning the route could stay shut until 2 April 2027, although it may reopen sooner if the work is completed earlier.
The official diversion directs pedestrians via College Road, Winchester Road, Exeter Road and Murrell Road before rejoining Public Footpath 354. Surrey County Council notes that the alternative route includes steps.
The footbridge provides an important pedestrian link between the residential areas on either side of the railway line. Since its closure, residents have been forced to take a significantly longer route to cross between Winchester Road and Old School Close. While the temporary order confirms that engineering works are planned, neither Network Rail nor Surrey County Council have yet published details of the specific structural issues affecting the bridge or a programme for repairs.
Residents seeking further information can contact Surrey County Council’s Countryside Access Team on 03456 009009 or email rightsofway@surreycc.gov.uk.