Netherton South & Orrell Labour are calling on National Highways to honour their original promise to replace the pedestrian bridge over the A5036 Dunnings Bridge Road at Park Lane. The bridge provided a safe crossing for thousands of children and adults for decades and its removal in 2022 has caused significant inconvenience and safety concerns.

The proposed alternative crossing does not meet the needs of local residents and we urge National Highways to restore the bridge, ensuring safe and convenient access for the community. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Who is responsible for the A5036 Dunnings Bridge Road and the former bridge at Park Lane?

The A5036 is a major A-road and is therefore the responsibility of National Highways. Any decision on replacing the bridge is a matter for them, not Sefton Council. 

National Highways have said they are not building a bridge – so what is the point of this petition?

The alternative option would be to do nothing. The Bootle MP, Peter Dowd, and Sefton Labour team have been pressing National Highways for months to reverse their recent decision not to replace the bridge. This online petition re-inforces that pressure and will allow us to demonstrate public support for a replacement bridge.

Where will this petition be presented?

To maintain pressure on multiple fronts, Bootle MP Peter Dowd will present a paper petition to the House of Commons in early 2026 which has been signed in person by local residents. In addition to this, an online petition will be presented to National Highways to re-emphasise the strong public support for the bridge. 

Why have Sefton Labour councillors and Bootle MP Peter Dowd launched this petition?

From speaking with residents on the doorstep and elsewhere, we know there is overwhelming local support for a replacement bridge. The elected representatives of Netherton and Bootle are duty-bound to stand up for their communities with the relevant authorities, in this case National Highways.

Why didn’t the insurance for the HGV that struck the bridge pay for a replacement bridge?

National Highways has been unclear on this, so the MP is requesting a formal position. Irrespective of insurance, National Highways has broken its original commitment to replace the bridge, hence this campaign to oppose that decision.