WALKERS will find it easier to enjoy the East Sussex countryside thanks to the winter work of the county council’s rangers.

A total of 35 wooden footbridges have been replaced and 31 repaired since November along the county’s 2,000 miles of rights of way – as the region endured one of the wettest winters on record.

New bridges built include those at Heathfield, Hellingly, Isfield, Mayfield, Westfield and on the Winchelsea Walk at Icklesham.

Countryside chiefs say the improvements will ensure walkers and cyclists can make the most of the county’s network of footpaths, bridleways and byways when warmer, drier weather finally arrives.

Cllr Claire Dowling, county council lead member for transport and environment, said: “We’re very lucky in East Sussex to have some stunning countryside walks along coastal routes and inland.

“Our countryside rangers do a fantastic job all the year round but to build so many new bridges in a few months, in the face of horrendous weather conditions, is particularly impressive.

“Replacing or repairing bridges which are coming to the end of their life ensures our rights of way are safe and accessible.

“Their efforts mean residents and visitors will be able to get out in the fresh air and take full advantage of our fantastic countryside when temperatures begin to rise.”

Details of rights of way and countryside sites in East Sussex are available at www.eastussex.gov.uk/rightsofway

New footbridges were installed in:
Barcombe
Battle
Berwick
Brightling
Chalvington with Ripe
Crowhurst
Frant
Hadlow Down
Heathfield and Waldron
Hellingly (pictured above)
Icklesham
Isfield
Laughton
Little Horsted
Maresfield
Mayfield and Five Ashes
Mountfield
Ringmer
St John (Without)
Wadhurst
Withyham
Warbleton
Westfield