BLACK metal health and safety barriers plonked on top of a picturesque railway bridge have angered local residents.

The barriers have been put up on either side of the 150-year-old brick bridge over the Exeter-Exmouth railway line at Elm Grove Road, Topsham.

Residents and councillors say the barriers are an eyesore, totally out of keeping with the rest of the area and an example of health and safety regulations gone mad.

But Network Rail claims they have been designed to stop people falling into the path of an on-coming train.

John Evans, 73, of Monmouth Street, Topsham, said he was outraged at the structures.

He said: "The erection of these disgusting metal fabricated anti-suicide barriers has, apparently, been allowed by Exeter City Council in a conservation area — an area where even modest indoor alterations to houses are routinely disallowed by that council.

"In my view, this represents another example where bureaucracy is ruining our lives."

Councillor Rob Newby, who represents Topsham, said: "Network Rail came up with a concept which they have told me is used quite widely across the Westcountry.

"I did indicate that it spoiled the view from the bridge and as far as can be remembered by people in Topsham, nobody has ever tried to commit suicide off the bridge."

He added: "It looks horrible and it is in part of the conservation area. I am deeply concerned they have been able to do something like this. There should have been some public consultation to come up with some idea which is visibly pleasing but maintains safety."

Elm Grove Road resident Charles Potter said: "I don't think anyone has thrown themselves off the bridge. It is an eyesore and totally unnecessary. Our grandchildren used to love looking over the top."

Former city councillor for Topsham Mary Evans said: "Before they did this you could see the head and shoulders of pedestrians and the roofs of cars and slow down but you can't see now. It is a hazard."

Richard Short, head of planning services at Exeter City Council, said Network Rail needed only prior approval not planning permission.

He said: "The need for works to the parapet was identified from a safety assessment.

"It was also desirable that the parapets be difficult to climb."

Mr Short said concern was expressed about the design and the possibility of using brickwork was considered.

He added: "Potential other solutions, such as railings, may have been easily climbable.

"I hope the somewhat stark appearance may tone down over time."

A spokeswoman for Network Rail said: "The whole idea is because there is a mandate that every parapet has to be a certain height for safety reasons.

"Also, the barrier is metal because it is lighter and the brickwork below can sustain it better.

"We did not want to ruin the integrity of the original brickwork."