Collapsed footbridge cleared

THE wooden footbridge that collapsed in the Paddington Arm has been cleared away.

Though there is no notice that the section is now open to navigation issued by Canal & River Trust, boats are finding their way through, Roger Fox reports.

Perilous state

The bridge, that collapsed on Friday 17th, was in a perilous state and had been closed off, but eventually gave way, closing the navigation.

Ealing Council staff removed the broken bridge from the canal together with the remaining debris, but though boats can now pass it has yet to be officially reopened.

Rotting piers

It was discovered it was the rotting piers that eventually gave way allowing the bridge to fall into the waterway. (Photograph courtesy of Ealing Times.)

Canal & River Trust posted a stoppage notice announcing the closure of the Paddington Arm but the diversion meant many miles via the Thames.