Bridge washed away in heavy rain nears reopening

A historic Guildford bridge washed away in heavy rain nearly seven years ago is edging closer to reopening, the National Trust has said.

Engineering work to replace Millbrook Weir and the crossing at Tumbling Bay on the River Wey has largely been completed, according to the charity.

The bridge, which dates from the early 1900s, was swept away during a period of high water on 2 November 2019.

Tristan Brown, general manager for the River Wey Navigations, said the project to replace Millbrook Weir and a footbridge was "coming to an end".

A final section of bridge over the sluice gate will now be built off-site before being installed.

The National Trust decided to carry out the extra work now, rather than close the route again in the near future, Brown said.

"As a result, it will be a few more weeks until the bridge is fully open," Brown said.

Following discussions with Guildford Borough Council, the National Trust assumed responsibility for repairing the bridge in November 2023.

The charity later secured funding for a major repair and replacement project at the site.

The work has included installing a new structure designed to secure the future of the crossing and weir.

Brown thanked residents and visitors for their patience while the scheme is completed.

"While there may not be work happening on site every day, we are working hard behind the scenes to complete the project and minimise any delays," he said.

The National Trust said it expected the bridge to reopen once the final section had been installed.

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