It’s neigh bother improving safety for horse riders on M27 bridge
Horse riders in Chilworth celebrated the official opening of a new safe way to use a bridge over the M27 near Southampton.
New mounting blocks have been installed by Highways England either side of the Chilworth Drove bridge to allow horse riders to easily dismount and safely use the bridge with their horses.
Highways England route sponsor John Henderson said:
“Safety is at the core of everything that we do. When the concerns were raised about the height of the bridge parapet for horse riders, we identified that a solution was to install these mounting blocks to allow horse riders to easily dismount and safely use the bridge. We are pleased that the local equestrian community have welcomed the improvements and thank them for their patience while we carried out the work.”
The new mounting blocks were officially opened today (Friday 30 September) by Caroline Nokes MP for Romsey and Southampton North, who attended with her horse.
The British Horse Society is the UK’s largest and most influential equestrian charity. They had suggested to Highways England that the mounting blocks were installed to help improve access for their members.
Mark Weston, Director of Access at The British Horse Society said:
“We are delighted that following our request to Highways England for the provision of these mounting blocks, Highways England have been able to provide them so speedily. They will greatly assist the safety of riders who wish to dismount to cross this bridge.”
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