Isle of Wight rail bridge walls from Network Rail "need replacing"

Both Park Road and Rink Road have recently reopened following Network Rail works to replace bridge decks.

But, much to the "shock" of those who live nearby, the previous metal walls have also been replaced — by ones at least four foot high. A new footpath has also been put in.

Residents said the walls on Park Road are now too tall meaning passers-by can no longer see Monktonmead Brook nor the train tracks — both of which run under the bridge.

Network Rail told the County Press while it recognises residents’ feedback, the new walls have been designed "to prevent trespass and vehicle incursion onto the railway."

From left: Paul Philbrow, Pauline Buckett, Jack Buckett and Mary Jane Ashford (Image: IWCP) The rail bridge and the walls either side (Image: IWCP)

How the wall looked previously (Image: IWCP)

Jack Buckett, who has lived in the area with wife Pauline for around 60 years, said: "We used to see ducks with their young. Kingfishers. I've seen Jays there.

"We used to come here virtually everyday to come and look over."

Now, he says, it's "depressing" and they can no longer take in the view.

Fellow resident, Paul Philbrow, said: "The brook is an important part of Ryde.

"Now children come along here and they'll be completely unaware it's there.

"It's like you're being directed through an abattoir."

He said the previous walls weren't "particularly attractive" but at least allowed for the view and "blended in with the general, semi-rural ethos of the road."

The view over the wall on one side of the road (Image: IWCP) The new wall blocking the view (Image: IWCP)

Fellow resident, Mary Jane Ashford, said she "felt sick" when she saw the walls, describing them as "tin cans".

"The view is valuable for children and it's valuable for adults under stress", she said.

"We need access to these simple things of nature near our homes."

Mary said the smooth, shiny surface has already started to attract graffiti.

How the wall looks on the other side of the road (Image: IWCP) The walls on Rink Road (Image: IWCP)

She also questioned why the walls could not have gaps in, so people can look through them, much like those designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

"All that's suited for Ryde apparently is something that blocks our view, looks awful and doesn't lift our lives on the way to work or to the shops. 

"People in Ryde deserve better."

A spokesperson for Network Rail said: "We have worked closely with Island Roads and Isle of Wight Council who granted planning permission for this work. ​

"We are sorry to hear that some residents feel the bridge is less aesthetically pleasing however we take our responsibility for the safety of everyone who uses the railway very seriously and the bridge wall has been designed with safety first and foremost in mind."