Bridge- What bridge?

Drivers tooted their horns and gave ‘thumbs ups’ in satisfaction

No, nothing to do with Simon and Garfunkel ‘Bridge over Troubled Water’ more like ‘troubled bridge over water’.

For so many years bushes, brambles, holly and ivy have appeared as a thick hedge on both sides of the A40 London Road, between the BMW Sytners Garage and the traffic lights at Gomm Road. Only those with a keen eye or a very long memory would be aware of the fact there was actually a bridge over the River Wye at this point.

A Google Maps image of the bridge in April 2025

Paul Kemp, a committed and enthusiastic volunteer within the Wycombe Marsh Community Environment Group, decided that ‘enough is enough’ and called on fellow volunteer locals Jean Peasley and Stephen Boyes to cut back all the foliage to reveal the hidden bridge and its original splendour.

Armed with green waste bags, clippers, loppers, spades and brushes the three musketeers…..well, volunteers …..attacked the task in two stages, firstly the North on day one and the second day, the South side.

Careful planning and action prevented debris falling into the river below and cautious positioning of volunteers, clad in hi vis, warned passing motor vehicles and pedestrians of our activities.  Many drivers tooted their horns and gave ‘thumbs ups’ in satisfaction and gratitude at the work we were doing.

Unexpectedly the proud swan symbol of High Wycombe was revealed on both sides of the bridge. The High Wycombe swan symbol distinguishes itself from the county swan, which has open wings, by having closed wings. The Swan of Bucks The Swan – Buckinghamshire Culture has been associated with the town since the 15th century and in it’s different forms represents the town, and wider county. 

It was a lengthy, demanding task but our volunteers were rewarded by the surprise and thanks of passersby. 

In addition to revealing the bridge, pedestrians now benefit from the widening of the paths making them safer as well as opening the previously hidden view of the River Wye below.

Want to get involved?

Wycombe Marsh Community Environment Group hold regular litter picks, but also undertake gardening and other ad hoc projects in the area. 

If you would like to be involved in any of our activities, please email us: wymceg@gmail.com 

Or follow us on Facebook to see what we get up to!