This is an extract from an email I received in August:

I had some success in having the planks removed so small children can reach one set of handrails (as far as they go), but it is hard work when structural engineers, cycle officers and transport information managers conspire to deny reality - the pair of hand rails are not there at the top of the stairs at both ends. They need replacing.

Also can one of SE23's cyclists have a look at these channels and report back whether they think this is a safe and usable structure, for what is meant to be a significant cycle route? Would they use it or avoid it?

I visited the pedestrian bridge at bell green (end of Winsford Rd), and I totally agree that the channel installed there is safe for cyclists and pedestrians alike. But the staircase there is half the gradient.

I agree with shellypath - this bridge desperately needs maintenance, and a separate cycle and disabled access provided.

And yes, I've seen on maps on the sydenham site, that this is the site of a crossing on the canal - presumably a pedestrian swing bridge, so this is an old and important right of way. I do not know the age of the bridge tho.