A new action group has been set up to support Marlow and its businesses in the wake of the bridge closure.

The Marlow Traders Bridge Closure Claim Group (MTBCC) could follow in the footsteps of Bucks County Council and lodge a claim against Girteka Logistics, the haulage company whose 37 tonne truck tried to cross Marlow Bridge in September, forcing it to close.  

The group is made up of local traders as well as town councillors Richard Scott, Jocelyn Towns, and Chris Funnell and representatives of the business community Tamra Booth of Sorbon Estates and Mark Howard of fst.

They are now recommending a specialist loss assessor – Harris Balcombe – be appointed to handle their claim and will meet with them on November 10.

Their previous expertise included the successful representation of the traders at Cockermouth, where the town's bridge was swept away, resulting in a 30 mile detour.

The group also have big plans for a marketing campaign to encourage shoppers, residents and visitors back into the town to ‘Shop Local.’

A thorough inspection of the bridge is currently taking place and details of any damage and remedial action should be available by the end of this week.

Retailers who want to make a claim can join the private meeting with Harris Balcombe at Burger’s on the Causeway, at 6pm tomorrow.

If you are unable to make the meeting, inform Robyn Sutcliffe of The Perch coffee shop to complete the claim form that is being distributed to all traders by hand during this week.