COUNCIL chiefs in Worcestershire are convening to discuss the future of a Redditch walk way which has been dubbed ‘suicide bridge’ by local residents after it becoming the scene of several deaths.
County Councillor Joe Baker (Lab, Arrow Valley East) said if nothing is done after the meeting is held on September, ‘Blood is on the county council’s hands’.
Couns John Smith and Frances Howies from Worcestershire County Council will meet at the county hall with a member of the highways team, Coun Yvonne Smith (Lab Winyates), Bev Houghton from the community safety department at Redditch Borough Council and representatives from West Mercia Police.
This comes after a full council meeting in July when the issue of the Musketts Way Bridge sparked a heated discussion and Coun Simon Garaghty promised to take action within three months.
This was after the council had earlier refused to cage the bridge as it was expected to cost £60,000, but Coun Baker along with family members of those who have lost their lives, fought for action on the bridge.
“I hope they listen to the groups that have been involved, such Redditch Mental Health Action Group,” said Coun Baker.
“I hope they will do the right thing and have the bridge caged off. This should prevent anymore jumpers from the bridge and danger to the highway too.
“If nothing is done after this meeting we will campaign to make it clear blood is on the council’s hands.”
