Press Release JOINT UPDATE : HAWKENBURY BRIDGE

Headcorn and Staplehurst Parish Councils recognise the continuing concern and frustration among residents regarding Hawkenbury Bridge. We understand why the community wants to see meaningful action taken.

Kent County Council Highways has proposed introducing enhanced warning signs, road markings and bollards at the bridge.

Cllr Sharp, Staplehurst Parish Council Chairman stated ”Staplehurst Parish Council has significant reservations about how effective these measures will be, as similar measures have not resolved the problem in the past. However, the Parish Council has agreed to give qualified support to the proposal, subject to both Staplehurst and Headcorn Parish Councils being included in a review of its effectiveness after two years.”

This should not be regarded as an unqualified endorsement of the proposed measures. Both parish councils remain committed to representing their communities, working with Kent County Council and pressing for further effective improvements.

We will continue to keep residents informed as further information becomes available and progress is made. We understand the work will take place end of October – early November 2026 and last up to 3 weeks.

Headcorn Parish Council
Staplehurst Parish Council