Backlash over 'ludicrous' plan to fence off river

Plans to build a fence along the river have come under fire

Plans to fence off part of a river over concerns about anti-social behaviour have been criticised by local residents, with one calling it "expensive and ludicrous".

Thrapston Town Council in Northamptonshire voted to construct a 1.5m-tall (5ft) fence along the River Nene, near Nine Arches Way, at a cost of up to £5,000.

The decision was taken after homeowners raised concerns about disturbances and littering becoming more frequent.

But following a public backlash over plans for the new structure, other options are to be discussed next week.

A number of residents living near the river raised objections, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Rosemary Balcer said: "I have never heard of anything so heavy-handed, destructive, expensive and ludicrous for a problem that is seasonal and then mostly at weekends.

"I would like to urge the town council to think creatively, embrace the beautiful surroundings, promote the town, community and riverside, which can be regarded only as an asset, not a problem."

Others were concerned about the effect on wildlife and river access for swimmers and other recreational activities.

Jo Penny, who lives near the river, agreed there was a problem with anti-social behaviour at the site, but said the issue needed more than a "band-aid fix" of fencing.

"That behaviour needs to be tackled rather than erecting a pointless fence, which I fear would only be kicked down by the same people leaving their mess behind."

Chair of Thrapston Town Council Craig Wheeler said: "The town council would like to emphasise that no final or binding action will be taken before the review takes place, and that the decision-making process will be carried out with full transparency.

"The council remains focused on making balanced decisions in the best interests of the town, taking into consideration public safety, access, environmental concerns, and the community's enjoyment of shared spaces."

The review will take place at a public meeting on 31 July.