Temple Footbridge
Temple Footbridge
Temple Footbridge Closure
Temple footbridge crosses the River Thames upstream of Temple lock near Marlow.
Background
Keeping the public safe is one of our highest priorities and we (Environment Agency) closed Temple Footbridge on 15 May 2023 due to numerous structural and safety concerns. The bridge was constructed in 1989 from tropical hardwood with an approximate design life of 30 years. We know the bridge is important to both local people and visitors using the Thames Path, and we are treating this matter as a priority.
What is happening
Our contractor re-mobilised on Monday, 3 November 2025, following a temporary pause to allow river users access through Temple during half term week.
They constructed the bridge lifting assemblies on the floating pontoon throughout the early part of the week and then carried out a successful test lift of the centre span on Thursday 8 November 2025. As the test lift went well, they decided to continue with the main lift to remove the centre span. This carefully controlled process included incrementally jacking the section upwards whilst ensuring it was not snagging on the outer spans. The central span was finally fully disconnected from the outer spans after a 9-hour seamless operation.
The centre span will now be fully lowered and moved to a secure location for inspection and storage. Once the inspection is complete, we will determine whether the bridge can be refurbished or requires replacement.
We will re -open the Navigation from the afternoon of Friday 7th November 2025. You can keep informed on closure is at River Thames: restrictions and closures - GOV.UK. We will also update our customer engagement page at Temple Footbridge closure | Thames Area assets | Engage Environment Agency with any further updates.
Photos highlighting the lifting and lowering process of the central span
Next phase
Once the central section is removed, it will be inspected, and the results will be used to help determine if refurbishment of the bridge is a viable option. Due to the volume of tropical hardwood within the current bridge, as well as some design improvements that can be made, a major refurbishment might not be possible.
Outline design for the bridge refurbishment or replacement are planned for completion by 31 October 2026. This design will be used to determine the next phase of design and construction. It will inform project cost estimates, our partnership funding strategy, and further communications. We are currently reviewing suitable government delivery frameworks to ensure the most appropriate contractor is identified
A footpath diversion on designated footpaths and road crossings will remain in place.
Contact us
Please note that the most up to date information can always be found on this page. However you can email enquiries_thm@environment-agency.gov.uk(External link)
You can also phone our National Customer Contact Centre on 03708 506 506 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm).