Ancient lane from Bedhampton to Langstone Harbour | Nostalgia

The first was the reference to the Portsmouth-Arundel canal. The second to the evidence that still survives of a once important route.

Mr Tate says: ‘I am one of a group of residents who have come together to safeguard the heritage assets of Bedhampton.

‘As part of our efforts we have come to recognise the significance of Narrow Marsh Lane in the history of Bedhampton and Havant. The lane ran from Lower Road across the coastal salt marshes and out into Langstone Harbour at Broadmarsh.

‘This southern section within the harbour is still visible and runs out towards the deep water channel created by the Hermitage Stream to a place identified on old maps as 'Landing'.

‘The other remaining northern section runs from the railway line to Lower Road. Unfortunately the middle section was lost to landfill associated with the construction of the A27 by-pass in the 1970s, now forming part of the Harts Farm Way employment area.’

Mr Tate adds: ‘When the railway was built two bridges were constructed in close proximity. A sweeping reverse-curved arched bridge connecting Mill Lane in a gradient that allowed hand carts to pass between the Mills, Granary and Biscuit Factory and a smaller single arched bridge skewed to maintain the directness of Narrow Marsh Lane. Both these lanes will have connected to Landing. The provision of these bridges must have reflected their status and historic usage.