Ewell Stepping Stones: Community Victory as Removal Plans Shelved

A Reprieve for Ewell’s Cherished Crossing

For months, residents of Ewell have watched with concern as plans circulated to remove the beloved stepping stones crossing the Hogsmill River—a fixture at this cherished beauty spot since 1983. The Environment Agency initially signalled removal was their preferred option, citing persistent safety concerns including water level fluctuations that regularly submerge the stones and erosion damage from heavy foot traffic, particularly from dog walkers. However, a recent Freedom of Information request has revealed that no final decision has been made, offering genuine hope to the local community. Jack Finnerty, founder of the Friends of Hogsmill Stepping Stones campaign group, expressed cautious optimism following conversations with the council and EA. While the stepping stones remain part of the Hogsmill Local Nature Reserve—a treasured green space that residents throughout Ewell and surrounding areas like Horsley and East Horsley rely upon for outdoor recreation—the uncertainty over their future has weighed heavily. The stepping stones represent more than just a crossing; they’re an integral part of the community’s connection to nature and local heritage.

Multiple Agencies Now Working Toward Solutions

What’s particularly encouraging is the shift in tone from agencies responsible for maintaining river infrastructure. Epsom and Ewell Borough Council, the South East Rivers Trust, and the Environment Agency are now actively collaborating to explore restoration options rather than proceeding with removal. The council has already undertaken practical maintenance work, including removing accumulated gravel to lower water levels and reveal the stones, cleaning away algae buildup, and repairing the access steps. Liz Frost, chair of the council’s Environment Committee, emphasised the authority’s commitment to restoring and maintaining safe access while working collaboratively with all stakeholders. Beyond the immediate stepping stones, the council has secured funding for an additional footbridge upstream, providing an alternative accessible crossing that will complement rather than replace the historic stones. This dual-crossing approach addresses the primary safety concerns while preserving community access to this important local landmark. The shift from removal to restoration demonstrates that when local organisations and residents engage meaningfully with decision-makers, genuine alternatives can emerge.

What Happens Next: Community Action and Timeline

For Ewell residents, the coming months are critical. While Jack Finnerty has called for a ‘firm commitment’ that the stepping stones will remain and clarification on long-term ownership and management responsibility, conversations between agencies are ongoing. The Environment Agency’s statement that ‘conversations are ongoing with partners and stakeholders’ suggests decisions could crystallise within the next few months. Residents should monitor updates from Epsom and Ewell Borough Council and remain engaged through local community groups. If you use the Hogsmill stepping stones regularly or care about this local amenity, now is the time to support the Friends of Hogsmill Stepping Stones campaign and respond to any public consultations. The broader lesson here extends beyond Ewell: community engagement works. Whether you’re planning kitchen renovation or bathroom refurbishment in your own home, or advocating for local infrastructure, persistence and collaborative problem-solving yield results. Keep an eye on council notices and the Environment Agency’s website for announcements about the restoration plans and timeline for improvements to this beloved crossing.

Source: No final decision over removal of popular Ewell stepping stones