Temple Footbridge
Temple Footbridge
Temple Footbridge
Background
Temple footbridge, which crosses the River Thames upstream of Temple lock near Marlow, was created in 1989 using community funding. It is constructed from tropical hardwood and had an approximate design life of 30 years.
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. 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.
Recent update
We have received the outline designs of potential bridge replacement options and are now in the process of working with our construction partners to assess the likely costs of each option. These will be shared at a public engagement event which we aim to host in June 2026. Further details will be shared here once they are available.
We are also in contact with private landowners with a view to improving the current footpath diversion. Any alternative footpath diversion routes will be updated here as well as at Temple bridge closed- Thames Path on diversion May 2023 onwards - National Trails
Next steps
Our project team are reviewing how each bridge replacement may affect the local environment as well as preparing for any future planning application considerations. We are also planning to meet with local MPs and other stakeholders to develop a funding strategy that will be focused on the full replacement of this bridge as soon as possible.
Photos from the recent survey of the side spans.
General view the bridge’s side spans looking west
Temporary access installed to enable bridge engineers to inspect the side spans.
Significant timber decay found in the structural beams that support the bridge deck
Previous update
The central section of the bridge that was removed in November 2025 has now been assessed at its offsite location. Unfortunately, its condition is beyond economical repair and will require replacement.
The side spans were inspected during February 2026 and were found to be in very poor condition. All structural elements including the main supporting beams, deck boards, and parapets show signs of extensive deterioration resulting in a significant loss of structural integrity.
The advanced degradation of the structural beams, along with the complexities of the bridge’s location over the River Thames, mean that refurbishment of the side spans has been deemed non-viable and therefore are also beyond economical repair.
On Thursday 8 November 2025 the main lift to remove the centre span took place. 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 was fully lowered and moved to a secure location for inspection and storage.
The river is now fully open for Navigation. You can keep informed on closures at River Thames: restrictions and closures - GOV.UK(External link)(External link).
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)(External link)
You can also phone our National Customer Contact Centre on 03708 506 506 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm)