Building a ‘plastic fantastic’ bridge for the future

A popular east Dorset route is to get a new bridge that will last generations of walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

The Ameysford Bridge on the Castleman Trailway will be replaced by a stronger and more environmentally friendly one that is made from recycled plastic.

It will be built by Dorset Council in the first week of June and will be ready to use the following week.

This will mean the trailway from the Ferndown Forest Golf Club entrance will be closed from 2 June for up to one week.

Cllr Jon Andrews, Cabinet member for Place services, said: “The current Ameysford Bridge is nearing the end of its life, and we want to replace it with a bridge that is designed to last a long time.

“This recycled plastic bridge is expected to last four times longer than a timber bridge. The material is made up of recycled plastic, putting to good use an otherwise waste product. It’s been designed to look like wood but is far more resilient.

“The bridge will be perfect for use by walkers, horses and bikes.”

The Castleman Trailway is one of Dorset's best way-marked, walking, cycling and horse-riding routes.

At 16.5 miles long, the trailway follows much of the old Southampton to Dorchester railway line, taking in some of the area’s most stunning landscapes.

It also connects a string of settlements between Ringwood and Poole, as well as Avon Heath Country Park, Moors Valley Country Park and Upton Country Park.

The trailway, named after Wimborne solicitor Charles Castleman, is managed by Dorset Council in partnership with BCP (Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole) Council and Hampshire County Council.

Dorset Council senior ranger, Sophie Isaacs, said: “The Castleman Trailway is a fantastic multiuser route for East Dorset, this new bridge will keep it safe and easy to use for decades to come.

“We hope the regular users of the Ameysford to Uddens route will enjoy the new bridge when it opens in June.”

More information can be found on the Trailway on the Dorset Council web site www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/castleman-trailway