Wheelchair user to object to multi-million-pound Kent footpath diversion over inaccessible stepped bridge

Kent County Council has made an order to divert parts of public footpaths AU22 and AU17 in Kennington, Ashford, replacing existing level rail crossings with a new route over a footbridge. 

However, the bridge - funded by housing developers - has been designed with steps only and no ramps, meaning it cannot be used by wheelchair users or many people with reduced mobility. 

The council’s order, made under section 119A of the Highways Act 1980, was published in February and is open for objections until 9 March 2026. If objections are received, the matter should be referred to the Planning Inspectorate and could trigger a public inquiry. 

Doug Paulley, a wheelchair user and disability rights campaigner, intends to lodge a formal objection on the basis that the diversion will effectively exclude disabled people from using the route, forcing them onto significantly longer alternative journeys to access vital services. 

The bridge is intended to link major housing developments on either side of the railway line, including access to a new primary school, community facilities and local amenities. Planning permission had previously been granted for a ramped bridge design, but this was later replaced with a stepped structure after cost concerns were raised. 

Campaigners argue that building a new public right of way that cannot be used by wheelchair users will create an unequal and discriminatory barrier for disabled people. 

Doug is also keen to hear from local disabled residents or community members who may be affected and may wish to support or participate in the objection process. 

Doug is represented by Kate Egerton, human rights solicitor at law firm Leigh Day. 

Doug said: 

“It is shocking that in 2026 we are still seeing new public infrastructure being built with disabled people effectively disregarded. This diversion would replace an accessible level crossing with a stepped bridge that wheelchair users simply cannot use, forcing us onto long and inconvenient detours just to reach everyday services. 

“Public footpaths must be accessible to disabled people. Local authorities have duties under the Equality Act 2010 not to discriminate in the provision of public services and facilities. Approving a new route with steps breaches those duties by systematically excluding wheelchair users and others with mobility impairments. I will be formally objecting to this order. I encourage disabled residents to do the same - as the people directly affected by these decisions.” 

Kate Egerton said: 

“Kent County Council has approved an order diverting public footpaths over a bridge that wheelchair users simply won’t be able to use. A stepped footbridge with no ramps is not an accessible solution and we say does not comply with the Council’s legal duties under the Equality Act 2010. Our client intends to make a formal objection before the March deadline, which should trigger a public inquiry. If the Planning Inspectorate ultimately approves this diversion, he is prepared to challenge that decision. 

“This is brand new infrastructure that is being built to connect growing communities, but it risks excluding wheelchair users and others with mobility impairments from the outset. We are also keen to hear from local disabled people who may be directly affected by this proposal and who may want to be involved in challenging it.”