Magdalen Bridge to be open on May Morning

For the first time since 2005 the bridge will be open to the 18,000-strong crowd who gather to hear Magdalen College choir sing in the Spring.

The 25ft-high bridge has been cordoned off early on May Morning for the past five years after chaotic scenes in 2005 saw scores of people jump into the River Cherwell, leading to 40 injuries.

But the operation was criticised because the cordon was removed relatively early each morning and people would then still jump.

However, city leaders and police believe specialist event organisation means it is safe to open it up once again. However, South Central Ambulance believes the decision poses a public safety risk.

Many residents have campaigned for the bridge to be open and feel the closure divided the city during one of its most celebrated festivals. Oxford author Ted Dewan welcomed the decision.

“May Morning is unique and very special,” he said. “I love its idiosyncrasies and its unpredictability.”

Oxford City Council leader Bob Price said closing the bridge had been unpopular with residents.

He said: “We have been working closely with the police and Oxfordshire County Council to ensure a safe and enjoyable event with Magdalen Bridge open as it has traditionally been.

“Security arrangements will be in place to make it difficult for people to behave stupidly. Our hope is it won’t put any strain on the ambulance service.”

The number of residents allowed on to the bridge will be limited and people will have to stand on the road itself. Pavements will be kept clear to allow access for emergency services.

The operation will be staffed by police and event stewards.

Both police and the councils have stressed the decision was not taken to save money.

Oxford’s police commander Supt Amanda Pearson, said: “Thames Valley Police supports the decision taken by the (city) council to reopen Magdalen Bridge to the public for this year’s May Morning celebrations, and will work closely with our partners to ensure this is done in a safe way.

“I would urge people to recognise this decision is one that has been made to further their enjoyment of this unique celebration, and not to abuse it.”

Although South Central Ambulance Service was consulted, it was not part of early meetings about the proposal.

This year’s celebration will be planned in conjunction with Oxford Inspires and the team behind the Broad Street’s Luminox event.

There will be activities taking place across the city including Morris Men in Radcliffe Square, Catte Street and Broad Street.

Many bars and restaurants will open for breakfast and there will also be food and activities at venues including the Ashmolean Museum and the Oxford Castle.

Rachel Capell, events and international links officer at the city council, said: “This year’s May Morning is about opening up the city so everyone can take part in the event together, in a safe and enjoyable environment.”

But paramedics are unhappy at the decision

SOUTH Central Ambulance Service is opposed to the reopening of Magdalen Bridge on May Morning.

Service spokesman James Keating Wilkes said people had suffered severe injuries jumping into the river in the past and there was every chance people would jump if the bridge opened.

He added: “It costs us £257 per incident, on average, and we will have a dedicated resource at the bridge on the day that could be more usefully employed elsewhere.”

But Mr Keating Wilkes added: “We are working with Thames Valley Police towards ensuring that if the bridge is open, any incidents are reduced to a minimum.”