Woodcote (Epsom) Residents Society

Cllrs Liz Frost and Bernice Froud have received an update from Network Rail about the Castle Road Footbridge.  It is very disappointing news, but we wanted to share this with you so that you are aware of the changed position by Network Rail. It is difficult to understand how it could have taken so long for the various bodies to realise that their proposals were not suitable.  They have informed our Councillors that –

‘This project has been under development for several years and remains a priority for Network Rail (NR), given its importance in maintaining safe and convenient pedestrian connectivity across the network. We recognise the significance of this route and are committed to delivering a safe, compliant and long-term solution.

Following detailed discussions with Surrey County Council (SCC), an issue has been identified relating to the legally recorded width of the public right of way over the railway. The route is officially recorded as being significantly wider (approximately 3.6 metres) than the 1.5 metre bridge design that has been developed to meet Network Rail standards.

This narrower design was progressed to maximise value for public funding and minimise environmental impact by repurposing an existing structure that had been fabricated, but not installed, at another location on the railway. However, under highways legislation, the legal width of a public right of way cannot be reduced or restricted without undertaking a formal legal process.

As a result, the planned installation of the bridge deck has been paused, although other elements of the works will continue where possible. The opening of the footbridge is now expected to be delayed by approximately 12 months, reflecting both the next available safe delivery window and the time required to resolve the legal position. Proceeding without addressing this issue would risk Network Rail acting outside of the law.

We fully recognise the frustration this will cause, particularly given the length of time the route has already been unavailable. We will do all we can to bring forward the installation if opportunities arise.

Next steps
To resolve the situation, Network Rail will now:

• Progress an application under Section 118 of the Highways Act 1980 to formally adjust the legal width of the right of way.
• Undertake further engagement and consultation, including with local stakeholders and user groups. A further communication will follow to stakeholders advising of this process.
• Work closely with SCC and other partners to ensure a robust and legally compliant outcome.

It is important to note that this process may be subject to independent determination. However, this represents the most appropriate route to ensure a lawful and enduring solution.’

Woodcote ( Epsom) Residents’ Society is sorry to announce that Cllr Steve McCormick has left the Residents Association group on Epsom Council and joined the Conservative Group.

This is clearly disappointing news for us but Steve has promised he will remain fully committed to supporting the on-going work of the Langley Vale Action Group to reject the Fairfax housing development proposal at Farm View. There is no reason why any differences in party politics should have any bearing on our local campaign in the forthcoming public Inquiry into the planning appeal.

W(E)RS also wish to emphasise that Cllrs Bernice Froud and Liz Frost will continue to serve you as Residents Association representatives on Epsom Council until it is replaced by the new East Surrey Council in April next year.

Cllr Bernice Froud said: “Whilst I am very sorry to see Cllr McCormick leave the RA, I know we can work with him on all matters concerning our Ward. I am very pleased that he will continue using his vast knowledge of planning law and policy to assise us in the fight against the development at Farm View.

“I will be continuing to work alongside Liz over the next 10 months to represent your views and listen to your concerns.  It will be a challenging time as the council changes to become part of the new East Surrey Unitary, but I’ll do my best to get things done in the time that we have left as a Borough authority.

“My appointments to Committees for the civic year are largely the same – Community and Wellbeing, Epsom & Walton Downs Conservators, Epsom & Walton Downs Consultative Committee, Human Resources Panel and Health Liaison Panel.

“Please do continue to reach out to me bfroud@epsom-ewell.gov.uk with any issues that I can help with, and I thank you all for your patience in waiting for successful outcomes.”

Cllr Liz Frost writes: “I can’t remember when I first joined the  W(E)RS committee, it was certainly several decades ago.  I was honoured to be asked by W(E)RS  to stand as one of your Councillors in 2011, to have been elected then, and re-elected in 2015, 2019, and 2023.  I want to assure you of my continued commitment to serve the ward as an independent RA Councillor for the remaining time that we have as a Borough Council.

“For this civic year, I am continuing in my role as chair of the Environment Committee.  This has responsibility for a variety of services, such as our parks and open spaces, climate change action plan, refuge and re-cycling, and off-street parking.  We are continuing to work with partners to both reduce the carbon footprint of the Council services and administration, and to encourage and enable local residents and businesses to achieve greater sustainability in their homes and businesses.  We are also upgrading several of our outdoor sport and recreation facilities.  My other committee positions are on the Financial Strategy Advisory Group, the Health Liaison Panel and Epsom & Walton Downs Conservators.

“Times are currently tough for local authorities, and this is even more difficult for us as we work towards handing over administration of the boroughs, districts and county to the new unitary authority.  The work towards re-organisation is taking significant resources, both financial and officer time – but we are committed to working to represent you, without control from national political party, for the next 10 months. You can contact me at lfrost@epsom-ewell.gov.uk “

We don’t just turn up for elections

-We are independent local candidates keeping party politics out of decisions which affect you.

-We care deeply about Epsom and its neighbourhoods and will work hard to protect what makes our area special.

-We are proud to offer a credible, experienced and locally-rooted alternative to politicians who are more committed to their party than the people they represent

We will build on our proven local track record in council leadership, standing up for Epsom & Ewell and deliver real improvements for our community

We will continue to work closely with community groups, charities, businesses and residents’ organisations

Below is :

-our Manifesto and covering letter

-our February newsletter

-the Langley Vale Action Group Update – We MUST fight on

We are local people working hard all year round for the benefit of you and all our community.

We need your support on Thursday 7 May 2026 to ensure your voice continues to be heard on the new East Surrey Unitary Council.

Please vote for your TWO Residents Association candidates on THURSDAY 7th May 2026