Humber Bridge bosses defend decision to close walkways
Footways have been shut due to increased number of suicide attempts
A decision to close the footways on the Humber Bridge has been defended by bosses at the crossing.
They say it's been necessary to do it, temporarily, as there's been an increase in the number of attempted suicides there in recent weeks and months.
A statement describes their duty to protect the public, staff and members of the emergency services who've had to deal with the upsetting incidents.
It also says £250,000 is spent every year on suicide prevention measures for the bridge which have until recently been largely successful and now they'll look into new ways of trying to do this in conjunction with mental health partners - so that people walking and cycling across the Humber are able to use the route again as soon as possible.
The full statement reads:
“We understand closing the footways has been a controversial decision that has not attracted universal support, but we would like to reassure the public that it has been taken as an emergency response to the unprecedented and deeply troubling events at the Humber Bridge over recent weeks.
“It is no secret that there has been a spate of people – mostly young people from the local area – who have decided to end their lives at the bridge.
“Closing the footways is the most immediate and effective way to prevent further incidents of this nature and this was our sole consideration when making the decision.
“As well as protecting emotionally distressed individuals, the measure has been implemented to protect our staff and the public.
“When these tragic events occur, our staff are the first responders and have to deal with some extremely distressing and traumatic situations. We have a duty to minimise their exposure to such incidents to protect their mental health and wellbeing.
“The Humber Bridge Board currently spends a quarter of a million pounds each year on measures designed to prevent emotionally distressed individuals from ending their lives at the bridge. Until last month these measures have been largely effective.
“However, the recent tragic events are unlike anything we have previously dealt with and we are working closely with Public Health, local MPs, local authorities, emergency services, the Samaritans, Hull and East Yorkshire Mind and other stakeholders to fully understand them and assess the future risk. While this is ongoing, the footways must remain closed to the general public.
“We are, however, looking at reopening access to commuters as soon as possible, to minimise disruption to those who cycle or walk to work over the Humber Bridge, and we are considering a range of measures to ensure the situation can be effectively managed once the footways fully reopen.”