A footbridge which for decades has provided an integral link for a North Yorkshire community is to be given a new lease of life.
The bridge, which provides safe crossing over a beck and links two open play areas in Hunton, is used daily by local residents and as a focal point for community events. The alternative access involves use of a public highway with no footpath.
A grant from Broadacres has helped towards the £10,000 cost of the project with work due to commence in Spring 2023.
Julie Sargent, who chairs the Hunton Village Hall Committee, said: “Locally we have a lot of grandparents looking after children and if you’ve a couple of under-fives with energy to burn you need somewhere safe where they can run around and play on the swings and slides.”
The bridge itself has also allowed different generations to enjoy games of pooh sticks and billy goat gruff.
Julie added: “The current wooden structure is 35 years old and in need of replacement. The new bridge would be sustainable, safer and more inclusive allowing better wheelchair and pushchair accessibility.”
The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes. All grants are approved by the Association’s own residents, via a Community Development Fund Panel.
Broadacres resident Jacque Maylon, who is on the Panel, said: “The bridge at Hunton has been used by generations of people, so we are pleased to be able to support its upgrading which will benefit the community for many years to come.”
People/organisations who would like to apply through the Community Development Fund can visit www.broadacres.org.uk/customer-area/getting-involved/community-development-fund to find out more.
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Not quite true: the beck can be crossed by a footbridge beside the ford. (That’s not to say that it isn’t good that the wooden bridge is being repaired.)