Footpath reopens after scaffolding is removed

Scaffolding that blocked a footpath for eight years has finally been removed.

The temporary structure supported the remains of a former factory in High Street, Aylesbury, but stretched across a narrow pavement, forcing pedestrians into the road to reach a row of shops.

Buckinghamshire Council said it had worked with the building's owners to clear the scaffolding and make the path safe for pedestrians.

Laura Kyrke-Smith, the Labour MP for Aylesbury, said: "I am delighted that we will be able to walk down our high street safely at last."

The council installed the temporary structure as an emergency measure to support a wall at risk of collapse, despite not owning the site.

In comments on Buckinghamshire Council's Facebook page, Conservative deputy leader Thomas Broom said the scaffolding had remained in place because of "a long running legal-issue".

Nearby resident Giles du Boulay has described the scaffolding as an "accident waiting to happen".

He had raised concerns that people with mobility issues such as himself, or those using buggies, would struggle to pass the structure.

Kyrke-Smith paid tribute to du Boulay, adding: "It should not have taken Buckinghamshire Council eight years to deal with this dangerous and damaging blight on our town.

"But this is a moment to celebrate!"

The council also said its highways team had checked that the road was safe to drive on.

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