A NEW bridge over the River Barle was officially opened on Saturday (October 19) as Exmoor National Park celebrated both Exmoor Day and its 70th anniversary.

The £120,000 Great Bradley Bridge, near Tarr Steps, is fully accessible and designed to blend in with the local landscape and reflect the natural beauty of the area as it improves the Two Moors Way route for both walkers and riders.

The path had been heavily eroded by flooding and the bridge was needed to re-route walkers and riders safely to the other side of the river.

Exmoor National Park Authority chief executive Sarah Bryan cuts a 70th celebration cake. PHOTO: ENPA.
Exmoor National Park Authority chief executive Sarah Bryan cuts a 70th celebration cake. PHOTO: ENPA. ( )

Celebrations were led by Exmoor National Park Authority (ENPA) deputy chairman Robin Milton, who cut a ribbon to open it, together with staff, volunteers, and many supporters of the project.

Construction of the 92-foot bridge, funded by donations to the ENPA’s CareMoor for Exmoor appeal, used a steel structure from a temporary bridge given by Devon County Council (DCC) and was fitted with locally grown oak to minimise its carbon impact.

It was also supported by the British Mountaineering Council through its ‘Mend Our Mountains’ campaign, the Graham Keene Foundation, and the Government’s Farming in Protected Landscapes programme.

Mr Milton said: “It is great to have this section of the footpath between Tarr Steps and Withypool open.

Exmoor National Park authority deputy chairman Robin Milton cutting a ribbon to open Great Bradley Bridge. PHOTO: ENPA.
Exmoor National Park Authority deputy chairman Robin Milton cutting a ribbon to open Great Bradley Bridge. PHOTO: ENPA. ( )

“I am very proud of our incredibly high quality of access routes on Exmoor, of which this is one.

“Being part of the long-distance walking route the Two Moors Way, it will have an important impact for both visitors and residents in the national park.

“Bridleway users also benefit and can now cross the river safely all year round, joining up access to the bridleway network for riders to enjoy.”

ENPA chairman Andrea Davis, who is also DCC cabinet member for climate change, said: ”We are delighted to officially open the new Great Bradley Bridge.

“It is a crucial link along the Barle valley, making it easier for hikers and riders to explore the beautiful landscape.

Amanda Hamley, of West Somerset and Exmoor Bridleways Association, testing the new Great Bradley Bridge for horseriders. PHOTO: ENPA.
Amanda Hamley, of West Somerset and Exmoor Bridleways Association, testing the new Great Bradley Bridge for horseriders. PHOTO: ENPA. ( )

“It will help to boost tourism in the region and support local businesses, but importantly it also protects local wildlife.

“The bridge will help reduce erosion and reduce disturbance to important habitats full of local wildlife from otter to pied flycatchers.”

ENPA access and recreation manager Dan Barnett said: “We want to say thank you to all the amazing people and organisations who have supported this project including the landowners, Somerset County Council, Devon County Council, and everybody who donated to the appeal.”

The Two Moors Way is a 102-mile walking route which stretches across Devon and part of Somerset, taking in Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks.

Usually, it is walked from Wembury, in South Devon, to the Exmoor Coast in Lynmouth, to make a fabulous coast to coast walk.

The section between Tarr Steps and Withypool has become one of the most popular parts of the trail.

ENPA is offering dedication plaques for sale to be attached to the bridge to commemorate a loved one or an anniversary, more information on which can be found here.