Temple Footbridge
Temple Footbridge
Temple Footbridge
Background
Temple footbridge crosses the River Thames upstream of Temple lock near Marlow.
Keeping the public safe is one of our highest priorities and the 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
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. We will also update this page.
Photos highlighting the lifting and lowering process of the central span
Next phase
Following a full assessment of the central section we can confirm this part of the bridge is beyond economical repair and will need to be replaced.
The team has now moved onto the next phase, which is to assess the integrity of the two side sections. Both sections are fragile, due to the rot in the deck board and parapets, and we are currently working with our contractor to develop a safe inspection method to do this. We are confident that an approach will be agreed and the inspection will be complete by mid-February. This information will allow us to determine whether the side spans can be refurbished, or whether a full bridge replacement is required.
We have asked our contractor to present an options study to us by the end of March 2026.
Outline designs for the bridge refurbishment or replacement are planned for completion by 31 March 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. This is due to be reassessed by the end of January 2026 with our contractor to see if any improvements can be made to the diversion currently in situ.
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
You can also phone our National Customer Contact Centre on 03708 506 506 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm)
