Hand rails from the footbridge which crosses over the A34 bypass in Nether Alderley have been stolen.
The metal handrails and supports from the steps leading to the footbridge on both sides of the road were removed last month, presumably to be sold as scrap metal.
We were alerted to the theft by several of our readers who, when out walking, were shocked to see the hand rails missing.
Catherine Taverner, who contacted alderleyedge.com, said "We regularly do a circular walk past St Mary's Church and across the footbridge and couldn't quite believe it when one Sunday the railings and supports had gone!
"They had been cut right down to the concrete using what must have been an angle grinder. Quite depressing to think someone could stoop so low as to steal handrails especially when the scrap value would be nothing compared to the cost of replacing them."
Grenham Ireland, Footpath Secretary at Ramblers East Cheshire Group, added "I assume from what is left there that the rails were aluminium or similar and had scrap value. It must have been quite a job removing them - I would have thought someone would have seen this since you would have needed a lorry to take them away. It is a great shame since the work on the bridge approaches has only just been completed."
A spokesperson for Cheshire East Council, said: "We received a report on Thursday November 3 that the handrails on either side of the footbridge over the Alderley Edge Bypass had been stolen. The police were informed and that afternoon, barriers were erected at the top and bottom of both flights of steps. The bridge remained open with access available via the adjacent ramps.
"Arrangements have now been made to replace the barriers. Additional security fittings will be installed. We would ask members of the public to be aware of these incidents and report anything suspicious to the police."
Anyone with information about this incident should contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or pass information anonymously using the Crimestoppers number - 0800 555 111.
Comments
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I find it incredible these low-life-scum could act so low !
May I suggest that, in accordance with Jeremy Clarkson's theory, these low-life scum should be shot in front of their children.
On a serious note, it's disgusting that these low-life can stoop so low to steal such things.
There is so much wrong with society for things like this to happen.
Also parliament needs to rush through tough legislation regulating and licensing scrap dealers as many seem to be complicit in this worrying crime. The one piece of good new on this is that I notice metal prices are taking a tumble on the world's markets today.