A NEW footbridge over the River Tavy, aimed at attracting more drivers to the Riverside car park in Tavistock, was given the thumbs down by councillors last week.
The bridge proposal was put forward by West Devon Borough Council, which is concerned about optimising parking provision in the town.
It was suggested a footbridge from Riverside car park across the river to Bedford car park might encourage more people to use the facility and make it appear closer to the town centre.
But Tavistock Town Council, which owns the river bank, last week overturned a committee recommendation to agree the idea 'in principle' and voted against giving the borough permission to use its land.
Cllr Pat Warne said another bridge over a 'lovely amenity' was a 'huge, irresponsible' waste of public money.
Cllr Warne said it would be much more effective to install better signing to the car park — and make it free.
Cllr Judith Williams said the town council would save the borough a lot of time and expense if it refused permission to use the riverbank.
'I think it's totally unnecessary and a waste of money,' she said.
Cllr David Stapleton said: 'I think it's absurd, frankly. My feeling is if we don't want another bridge there, now is the time to say it.'
The council agreed to contact the borough with its decision, recommending improved signing, lighting, lining of car park spaces and removal of fees to increase usage of the car park.