The much-used pedestrian ramp connecting Chalkwell Station to Chalkwell Beach has closed, with demolition plans now in motion following serious safety concerns. Built in 1910, the 115-year-old structure has been deemed no longer safe for public use following recent inspections by Southend-on-Sea City Council and Network Rail.
Despite years of joint monitoring and maintenance efforts, engineers have confirmed that the ramp – originally constructed using an early form of reinforced concrete – has deteriorated beyond repair. “The ramp was built in 1910 using an early form of reinforced concrete and has far-exceeded its design life,” said Cllr Daniel Cowan, leader of the council. “Despite these efforts, recent inspections have revealed significant further deterioration, which poses an increased safety risk.”
Cowan stressed that public safety is the council’s top priority: “The council has taken the necessary decision to close the ramp. We are committed to working with Network Rail on reinstating safe access between Chalkwell station and the beach, both temporarily and permanently.”
Demolition ahead – but no replacement ready
The closure comes before a replacement ramp is in place – a move that has caused significant concern among locals. Discussions are now under way between the council and Network Rail to demolish the current structure and develop plans for both a permanent replacement and an interim access solution.
Alternative routes are available via The Ridgeway, Victory Path (next to Baboush restaurant), Chalkwell Avenue, and Chalkwell Esplanade, but these are significantly longer and less direct – a major issue for families, older residents, disabled users, and businesses who rely on foot traffic from the station to the seafront.
Over 100 residents gather in protest
In response to the closure news, more than 100 residents, business owners and councillors gathered at Saltwater Beach Café in a public show of concern.
Cllr Nigel Folkard, spokesperson for Chalkwell ward councillors, acknowledged the community’s frustration: “After 115 years of use, it has become necessary to replace this ramp. As ward councillors, we have long advocated for action to be taken. Although it is disappointing that a permanent replacement is not ready, we are pleased the council has responded to our calls for temporary access while working towards a permanent solution.”
The owners of Saltwater Beach Café also voiced their frustration: “The local community relies on the bridge to access the beach. It’s a high-footfall walkway used all year round. To close it during the busy summer months will impact tourists and all the local residents that access the beach for recreational purposes. People are very upset that it has been left for all this time and no solution found before it was condemned.”
MPs weigh in
A statement read on behalf of David Burton-Sampson, MP for Southend West and Leigh, pledged: “To keep pressure on all stakeholders until this vital access route is restored to public use. I appreciate the impact this is going to have on accessibility and on businesses such as the Saltwater Café. This must be treated as a top priority.”
Former MP Anna Firth also expressed anger at the sudden announcement. “This is totally unacceptable and residents need to know ASAP what ‘imminently’ means. Why was no remedial plan already in place given the age of this bridge?” she said. “This is the main and only link on foot from Chalkwell station to Jocelyn’s Beach, the Saltwater Café, the bowls club, Chalkwell Beach, Chalkwell Lifeguards and other much-loved cafes and eateries. It is also used by lots of park runners every Saturday morning. Proper planning for an interim footbridge should have been in place before not after such an announcement.”
What happens next?
Community members are urging the council to provide clearer timelines, practical interim access options, and ongoing communication to avoid further disruption.
This footbridge has been a vital link between Chalkwell Station and the seafront for generations – and its closure is more than just an infrastructure issue. It’s about access, safety, and the beating heart of a community that doesn’t want to be left behind.