Romsey Abbey gate to close while footpath work takes place

The western gate of the South Garth at Romsey Abbey will be shut from Monday, August 31, while repairs are carried out on the footpath, which runs parallel to the church.

The closure is necessary due to safety concerns after the path developed a severe camber, posing a risk to those with limited mobility.

The western gate of the South Garth will be closed for up to two weeks. (Image: Romsey Abbey)

Pamela Leech, chair of the abbey’s Fabric Committee, said: “The Gates on the North and South sides of the South Garth (accessing the Garth from Church Place and The Abbey respectively) will remain open, and that end of the Garth including the seating under the trees will still be available, but it will not be possible to enter or leave the South Garth at the West End (near the Church Rooms).

"We are sorry for any inconvenience caused, but please bear with us; we will reopen the gate as soon as it is safe to do so.”

The repair work will level the path and address a sunken drain at the edge of the grass, which can be a trip hazard.

The South Door of the abbey will also be out of use for normal access during the works.

The contractors repairing the path are not responsible for the closure, which is a decision taken by the abbey for the protection of the public.