I am aware of the significant disruption being caused across Woodford by the closure of Roding Valley Bridge.
This temporary closure by Thames Water was due to end earlier this week but was extended until today, and yet it remains closed. As a result, large parts of Woodford to a standstill. Residents are already facing severe congestion as a result of the ongoing closure of Broadmead Road Bridge, and the loss of another key crossing has placed an unsustainable strain on our local road network.
I am particularly concerned by the lack of clear communication from Thames Water and the inadequate signage surrounding the closure, which has left many drivers confused and further worsened congestion.
Local Conservative councillors are working closely with Essex County Council to press for Roding Valley Bridge to reopen as quickly as possible. However, the current situation also demonstrates just how vulnerable our area has become without Broadmead Road Bridge.
The severe congestion we are now witnessing underlines the urgent need for Broadmead Road Bridge to secure funding through the Department for Transport's Structures Fund. More than three years after its closure, local residents should not continue to suffer the consequences of inadequate transport infrastructure and a lack of resilience in the network.
I have written to the Transport Minister to highlight the significant impact these continued closures are having on local residents and businesses, and to reinforce the urgent case for Government support. The gridlock currently affecting Woodford provides clear evidence that investment in Broadmead Road Bridge cannot be delayed any longer.
I will continue to fight for the funding needed to rebuild and reopen Broadmead Road Bridge as soon as possible.
