The Strategic Sites Committee of Buckinghamshire Council met on Thursday 22 October 2026 to discuss a planning application for a replacement footbridge over the A404 in Marlow. The committee considered the application, which is a condition of the planning permission granted for the Marlow Film Studios development. The new bridge is designed to replace the existing Volvo Footbridge, which only has step access, with a wider bridge featuring ramped access on both sides to accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, and mobility-impaired users. The committee discussed the accessibility benefits, design and visual impact, residential amenity concerns, biodiversity net gain requirements, highways and safety considerations, and the bridge's location within the Green Belt. Discussions also covered construction and traffic management plans. The committee noted that the Marlow Film Studios cannot be occupied until the new bridge is in place and available to the public.

Replacement Footbridge Over A404, The Chase, Marlow

The committee considered a planning application for the replacement of the existing Volvo Footbridge over the A404, which currently only has step access. The proposal is for a new, wider bridge with ramped access on both sides, designed to accommodate walkers, cyclists, and mobility-impaired users. This project is a condition of the planning permission granted for the Marlow Film Studios development, meaning the studios cannot be occupied until the new bridge is in place.

Key discussions and decisions included:

• Accessibility and Connectivity: The primary benefit highlighted was the creation of a fully accessible, step-free crossing, significantly improving connectivity between Marlow and the Little Marlow Country Park RUR4 policy area. This aligns with local plan policy RUR4, which requires safe, convenient, and direct access for pedestrians, cyclists, and disabled users to the country park. The new bridge will also enhance the favoured walking and cycling route between Marlow and Bourne End.
• Design and Visual Impact: The proposed bridge is a steel structure with mesh panelling, designed to be visually lightweight and transparent. Concerns were expressed about the visual impact of the ramps on nearby residential properties, particularly No. 33 The Croft. The design incorporates landscaping and screening measures to mitigate these effects. The replacement of existing trees with semi-mature trees, including Silver Birch and English Oak, was discussed, with a condition ensuring a detailed landscaping scheme is approved.
• Residential Amenity: Concerns were raised regarding potential overlooking into the garden of No. 33 The Croft from the bridge ramps. Officers confirmed that a condition would be imposed to ensure appropriate screening and landscaping details are submitted and approved, balancing privacy with the need for an open structure for safety.
• Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG): The application was required to demonstrate a 10% biodiversity net gain. While the initial assessment showed a gain for habitats, a shortfall for hedgerows was identified, with the applicant proposing off-site compensation. Conditions were agreed to ensure the implementation of a Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan and a Scheme of Ecological Enhancements, including bat boxes and bird boxes, to secure biodiversity improvements.
• Highways and Safety: Highways officers from Buckinghamshire Council and National Highways raised no objections, subject to conditions and legal agreements (Section 278 and Section 38 agreements). Concerns were discussed regarding the potential for quad bikes, e-bikes, and other vehicles to use the bridge at speed, particularly coming off the ramps. An additional condition was agreed to specifically address community safety, accessibility, and the prevention of crime and disorder, ensuring all users are protected. The width of the bridge (4 metres) was deemed sufficient for segregated pedestrian and cycle use.
• Green Belt and Open Space: The proposed bridge is located within the Green Belt. However, it was deemed not to be inappropriate development as it replaces an existing structure and provides access to outdoor recreation. The loss of some green space at The Chase was considered acceptable under Policy DM12 due to exceptional circumstances, as the new bridge provides enhanced access to a larger area of green space.
• Construction and Traffic Management: A Construction Traffic Management Plan (CTMP) will be required as a pre-commencement condition to manage construction traffic and routing, in consultation with National Highways.

The committee discussed the potential for the application to be approved, subject to agreed conditions and the addition of a new condition focusing on community safety and accessibility. The decision was to delegate approval to the Director of Planning and Environment, in consultation with the Chairman, to allow for refinements to the conditions.