For those of us living in East Sussex who need to venture "across the border" into Kent we now have a temporary reprieve and can breath a sigh of relief as the proposed works to the bridge over the Rother River at Newenden have been postponed until the spring of 2025.
Built in 1706, to connect East Sussex and Kent, the 300-year-old Newenden bridge was scheduled to be closed for up to 3 months whilst Kent County Council carries out essential repairs. The single track sandstone bridge is a lifeline for locals who were not only concerned about how they would get about when the bridge closes but also how businesses would be affected as well as commuters and school buses who regularly cross the bridge.
When the closure is put in place, Kent County Council have confirmed that the diversion route will be via: A28 Rye Road; A268 Rye Road, Megrims Hill, Rye Road; A229 Highgate Hill, Horns Road, Merriments Lane, Horns Hill, Coopers Corner; A21(T) London Road, Silverhill, Robertsbridge Bypass, Johns Cross Road, Vinehall Road, Woodmans Green Road, Hastings Road, New Road, Whydown Hill, Kent Street, Ebdens Hill; A28 Westfield Lane, Church Lane, Main Road, Brede Road, Brede Hill, Cackle Street, Northiam Road, Horns Cross, Well House Hill, Perryman Cross, Hastings Road, Main Street, Station Road and vice versa.
Unfortunately, due to the increase in traffic and particularly HGVs over the years, the bridge has suffered and, in its current condition, is considered unfit for purpose. The works, although essential if the bridge is to continue to operate, are greater than at first thought and will undoubtedly cause a great deal of disruption.
But for now at least, travelling over the River Rother where East Sussex meets Kent is still a pleasure as you pass over the Newenden bridge but enjoy it whilst you can, as come the spring of next year, your journey will not only be a little different than the norm but also more protracted.
