Day: 16 July 2026

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council approves Community Infrastructure Levy funding for new Hogsmill River footbridge near stepping stones

On 14 July 2026, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council’s (EEBC) Strategy and Resources Committee approved the allocation of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to build a new footbridge near the Chamber Mead Wetlands over Hogsmill River – the footbridge will provide a safe, fully accessible crossing for everyone. This is separate from any future decision on the stepping stones and not an either/or proposition.

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) raises funds from developers, recognising that new development creates pressure on local infrastructure. It is spent on the provision, improvement, replacement, operation, or maintenance of local infrastructure.

Councillor Liz Frost, Chair of the Environment Committee commented:

“The Environment Agency, which owns the Hogsmill riverbed and banks, has made the difficult decision to temporarily close the river crossing at the stepping stones, following safety concerns raised by the local community and a reported incident in which someone was injured.

“As an Epsom & Ewell resident, I understand how much the stepping stones mean to the local community. However, we can’t ignore these safety concerns. Councillor Williamson and I, as Vice Chair and Chair of the Environment Committee, are happy to bring interested parties together and facilitate discussions to help achieve the best outcome for the community.

“Separately, I am pleased that Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding has been approved to build a new footbridge that will provide a safe, fully accessible crossing for everyone to enjoy for many years to come – including wheelchair users, cyclists and families with buggies. I would also reiterate that this decision is independent of the stepping stones decision, this is not an either/or situation.

“We are also currently working with partners to make improvements to the area including shifting gravels in the river to try to lower the water level, repairing the path by the Hogsmill River to make it more accessible, and repairing the steps down to the stepping stones.

“We will provide a further update as soon as we’re able.”