Stepping stones on Hogsmill River to be removed

Stepping stones on the Hogsmill River at Ewell are to be removed, after a council said that it would not assume responsibility for them.

The Environment Agency (EA), which owns the riverbed and banks, wants to replace the crossing with a new pedestrian footbridge because of concerns over public safety.

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council (EEBC) was asked whether it wanted to take on the ongoing inspection, maintenance and associated liability of the stones and concrete steps, but made the decision not to at a meeting on Tuesday.

The stones were originally laid in 1983 and are part of the Hogsmill Local Nature Reserve.

The crossing is currently closed after safety concerns were raised by residents, including an incident in which someone was reportedly injured.

EEBC said increased water levels mean there are longer periods when the stones are submerged under the water.

It added that the steps leading down to the river are also unsafe because heavy use by dogs has caused erosion, making them unstable.

Measures such as warning signs, anti-slip surfacing, and handrails would "reduce rather than eliminate the ongoing public safety", council papers say.

EA said its "preferred option" is to remove the steps and stepping stones "unless another organisation agrees to assume responsibility."

Councillor Liz Frost, chair of the environment committee at EEBC said the council apprecates "some people will feel disappointed" but "the safety of residents and visitors has to be our priority".

She added that they had "carefully explored a range of options" and a footbridge "offers the best long-term solution".

"It will provide a safer and more stable/reliable crossing, enabling people of all ages and levels of mobility to continue enjoying this beautiful setting for many years to come," Frost said.

It is estimated a new footbridge will cost over £100,000, including design and planning fees.

The council has submitted a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) application to fund building work, with a decision due at a meeting on 14 July.

The Hogsmill River is one of only 200 chalk streams in the world and is known for being a nesting habitat for kingfishers and other birds and species.

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