Temporary Closure of Helmer’s Bridge

The pedestrian walkway that links the Helmer’s Estate in Chillington with the playing field and park is temporarily closed while contractors investigate rotting timbers which could make the structure dangerous to users. Both carrier joists and a number of decking planks on the ramp at the eastern end of the walkway (playing-field end) are seriously weakened and could fail at short notice. A spokesperson for Stokenham Parish Council, which owns the playing-field end of the walkway, said that the timbers were reaching the end of their expected life and plans were already in place to renew the structure with more durable materials. In the meantime the council had no choice but to advise walkers to avoid using it. The closure has been marked with barrier tape: those continuing to use the walkway before repairs are effected do so at their own risk!