A COUNCIL leader has responded to a public outcry over the potential demolition of a historic bridge by saying she will fight to keep it in place.

Earlier this week residents of Horspath village near Cowley met on top of the Cuddesdon Road railway bridge to protest against its potential demolition.

Protestors said they were told shortly after by police that if they continued they would be fined.

Read also: Aldi to enforce a new ban that will affect every store in England

It was later revealed that Highways England, which owns the bridge, was only removing dangerous parapets, but the bridge still remains on its list for future demolition or infill.

South Oxfordshire District Council leader Sue Cooper has now said she would 'fight demolition of the bridge'.

She said that, although Highways England did not need permission to remove the dangerous parapets at short notice, it would need permission from her council to demolish the bridge in its entirety.

Ms Cooper said: “Highways England have been advised that should they want to demolish the bridge then they would need permission from the District Council.

Read here: Man fights council to open a takeaway chicken shop

“They have acknowledged this and have confirmed that if this is decided then an application would be lodged.

“I know there is a lot of rumour going around but I hope this info will help reassure local people and the Parish that any decision will be a public one and they will have the opportunity to put their views forward through the application process.”

Read more about this story: Residents are protesting to stop the destruction of historic bridge

The councillor added that she thought the planning application to demolish the bridge would be 'very contentious' if tried again.

She also said that such disused railway routes make very good cycle tracks.

Read here: Protestors told they will be fined by the police if they return

She added: "I am really quite keen for the route to be kept as intact as possible and the bridge to stay in place."