Guildford boardwalk upgrade approved amid concerns over £628,000 cost
Riverside Nature Reserve walkway rebuild aims to enhance safety and habitat protection
Guildford Borough Council has authorised the replacement of a deteriorated boardwalk at Riverside Nature Reserve in Burpham, costing £628,000.
The decision to proceed with the contract for Keystone Environmental Ltd was unanimously approved by the council's executive on 23rd April, drawing attention to the project's rising expenses in comparison to earlier estimates.
The current timber walkway, classified as a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace and Local Nature Reserve, poses an increasing risk to visitors' safety without intervention.
The new boardwalk, constructed from recycled plastic instead of timber, promises enhanced durability in wetland conditions, reduced long-term maintenance, and a lower environmental impact.
Council members described the investment as critical to keeping the reserve accessible and safeguarding its fragile ecosystems.
The funding will come from existing reserves dedicated to countryside infrastructure.
Councillor Angela Goodwin underscored the ecological benefits, explaining that the updated structure would curtail visitor-induced damage and bolster biodiversity in the fen habitat.
The council emphasised that delays could complicate construction due to upcoming autumn weather, affecting both the building process and environmental conditions.
Despite the project's increased cost, councillors agreed on the necessity of the replacement to avert safety risks and possible reputational issues.