A row has erupted over a "monstrous" fence that has been installed to prevent people crossing an unsafe bridge.

Suffolk County Council has blocked the crossing of the White Bridge at Millenium Green in Halesworth due to it being unsafe.

The size and nature of the metal fence and the bridge closure has provoked anger among dog walkers and others who use the route.

As a sign of the strength of feeling about 50 people protested on Friday by the fence.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: Pat Jones in front of other fed up Halesworth residents Picture: Denise BradleyPat Jones in front of other fed up Halesworth residents Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)

Pat Jones, 78, lives on the Holton side of the so-called Folly that separates Halesworth and Holton and uses the walkway on a daily basis with her two dogs, but now cannot.

Mrs Jones said: "I live in Holton so use the bridge to cross from the Folly every day, well I did before the fence was put up.

"In such a beautiful area the fence they have put up to stop access to the bridge is just monstrous.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: The sealed off bridge Picture: Denise BradleyThe sealed off bridge Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)

"If this fence was put up in a residential area I bet people at the council would not allow it, it's an eyesore."

Beccles & Bungay Journal: The eyesore fence Picture: Denise BradleyThe eyesore fence Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)

For people on the Holton side of Halesworth to get to Millennium Green without using the Folly and crossing the White Bridge involves a long walk around.

Kingsley Elliff, 69, said: "The fence is preposterous, all they need is a sign, they had workers spending two days putting it up, what a waste of money.

"It looks like an electricity substation in a scenic area, the fence is a monument to council insensitivity." 

A spokesperson for Suffolk County Council said: “We understand the community’s frustration with this closure.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: A warning sign by the bridge Picture: Denise BradleyA warning sign by the bridge Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)

"Unfortunately, we have had to close the bridge as it is unsafe for use due to deterioration, we are considering options for the bridge replacement.

“We have had to add in reinforced fencing as the original closure barrier was being vandalised."

Beccles & Bungay Journal: Pat Jones in front of the protest Picture: Denise BradleyPat Jones in front of the protest Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)