Norfolk fords face permanent closure after motorist death

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 07:02 · Archive

Three Norfolk fords are set to close permanently following the 2023 death of a motorist swept away by water.

Norfolk County Council is considering permanent closures of three Norfolk fords following the December 2023 death of Barry Howard, 75, who drowned when his vehicle was swept down the Tas as he tried to drive through Shotesham Ford on his way home from a Norwich City evening game. Mr Howard was from Costessey.

After his death, the council inspected all 47 fords it is responsible for and temporarily closed Shotesham, West Acre and Castle Acre. West Acre and Castle Acre both carry traffic across the river Nar, whilst Shotesham is in south Norfolk. The council has since consulted on bringing in traffic orders for permanent closures.

Officers have cited safety reasons for the proposed closures, noting that West Acre Ford is 'not considered safe for vehicular use due to the potential for rapidly changing water depths obstructing the undulating ground'. The council states that vehicles attempting to drive through the ford can experience loss of traction, buoyancy or engine failure. Decisions on whether to proceed with the permanent closures are now due.

Norfolk fords face permanent closure after motorist death — Image: Eastern Daily Press

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How it is being reported

Decisions due over permanent closure of three Norfolk fords after motorist drownedThree Norfolk fords are now facing permanent closure after the tragic death of a motorist whose car was swept away.Eastern Daily Press · 13 Oct, 06:00
Decisions due over permanent closure of three Norfolk fords after motorist drownedThree Norfolk fords are now facing permanent closure after the tragic death of a motorist whose car was swept away.Norwich Evening News · 13 Oct, 06:00

In this story: Norfolk County Council · Barry Howard · Norfolk · Shotesham Ford · West Acre Ford · Castle Acre Ford

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