UNDER CONSTRUCTION Ashford Lane footbridge: Failure analysis is a systematic process used to investigate and determine the root cause of a failure in a product, component, or system. It involves examining the failed item, collecting relevant data, and using various analytical techniques to understand why the failure occurred. The goal is to identify the underlying causes, which can then be addressed to prevent future failures and improve reliability.
First thoughts – let’s look at some of the problematic local timber footbridges………
- Temple footbridge is still closed (see below)
- Berry Hill footbridge has been partially replaced
- Ashford Lane footbridge closed in 2024 collapsed in June 2025
- Black Potts footbridge – closed in June 2025 and awaiting survey
- Myrke footbridge – awaiting survey
Temple Footbridge, a pedestrian footbridge near Hurley, has been closed since May 2023 due to safety concerns related to its wooden structure. The bridge, which was opened in 1989 and is known as the longest spanning hardwood bridge in Britain, exceeded its estimated 30-year lifespan, and a structural survey revealed decay in critical elements.
From ‘The Times’ 26 Apr 2025 — Temple Bridge, a beloved Thames crossing, remains closed with repair costs estimated at up to £8.6 million, more than 20 times the original construction cost.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION