Three Oaks bridge closure causing '˜misery' in Doleham

Bernardine Fiddimore says there has been an ‘enormous’ increase in vehicles through the hamlet with motorists diverted there by the closure.

Numerous residents and the pub have also complained about the Butcher’s Lane bridge being shut due to Southern Water’s long-term drainage work, which it says cannot be opened permanently for safety reasons.

Ms Fiddimore urged the water company to reconsider as the residents are suffering, as well as the road surface, because of the traffic.

“The enormous increase in vehicle movements of all sorts has led to misery for these residents,” she said.

“Many drivers hammer down the hill at excessive speeds making our windows actually rattle as they hit the numerous potholes that have developed. It is difficult to unload shopping, dogs or children safely due the hill being so narrow and we have all been abused by drivers who have had to wait for a moment while we do so.

“Similarly there have been regular disputes between drivers who have to reverse, the lane being single carriageway.” The Rye Town Council member and former mayor said she has regularly counted around 65 vehicles in 75 minutes on Doleham Hill, a significant increase for a tiny hamlet.

“Re-opening the bridge would bring such relief to the beleaguered residents of Doleham Hill,” she said.

Mark Chapman, of Maxfield Lane, Three Oaks, described having the bridge shut as a ‘farce’ as it cuts the village in two in last week’s Observer.

Southern Water has been installing a public sewage system and pumping station for environmental reasons with rolling roadworks since last year.

A spokesman said the bridge cannot be opened as crews are working nearby and it would be unsafe to have motorists using it, but it has been opened at weekends to ease the impact on residents.

“We’ve been praised for our efforts to make things easier but we know the project is still causing some disruption – we’re sorry about this,” she said.

“We’re aiming to finish the project in early 2018 but will do all we can to reopen the bridge sooner.”

Three Oaks resident begs water company to open bridge

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