Exmoor's ancient Tarr Steps bridge to be assessed for damage when river levels fall

VISITORS to Exmoor are being warned not to try to cross the River Barle after the ancient Tarr Steps clapper bridge was washed away in the weekend’s storms.

An Exmoor National Park Authority (ENPA) spokesperson said: “Please follow any signs and temporary closures on site, and do not put yourself at risk by attempting to cross.”

The spokesperson said the condition of the rest of Exmoor’s 620 miles of public rights of way was currently also being checked.

However, they anticipated people could continue to enjoy walks following the river upstream on the eastern bank toward Hinds Pit Bridge, which also remains closed due to safety concerns, which could be done either as a short ‘there and back’ to Hinds Pit, or to link to longer walks via Knaplock.

The next available upstream crossing point was Great Bradley, and there was an alternative route for walkers and riders via Knapplock.

The spokesperson said national park rangers were working with landowners and partners to assess the wider network following the storms.

They said: “If you are out and about walking and riding on Exmoor and come across fallen trees, or other damage to the rights of way network, please do report any issues.”

The stones making up the 164 feet long Tarr Steps bridge, which could date to the Bronze Age, were swept away in floodwaters after Storm Austen and Storm Boelo hit the area on successive days.

ENPA said it was still too early to tell how badly the bridge had been damaged.

The spokesperson said: “The bridge is adjacent to the highway ford and as such is the responsibility of Somerset Council highways.

“A detailed inspection will be needed once river levels and conditions allow safe access.”

They said it was also too early to be able to give a timescale for when repairs could be carried out because it would need the river level to drop substantially, ‘meaning this is likely to be some while’.

The spokesperson said: “We know how important Tarr Steps is to residents, visitors, and businesses, and we understand many people will want to know when the bridge will be reinstated.

“We will provide further information once water levels allow Somerset Council to fully inspect the structure.”

“Once water levels have receded, Somerset Council, who have responsibility for the bridge, will be able to establish the extent of the damage and what work will be needed.”

The spokesperson said a tree catcher upstream of Tarr Steps had held back a significant amount of woody debris, but in extreme events such as those witnessed at the weekend it was able to capture all debris.

They said people could still visit Tarr Steps because both its public car park Tarr Farm Inn remained open, but they should not attempt to drive to Tarr Steps from the South West side or Hawkridge, as there was no parking and the roads were unsuitable.

Anybody who wants to support the work of keeping access open for all across Exmoor can donate to the CareMoor for Exmoor charity online.