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The abandoned A134 route, in Fornham St Martin, near Bury St Edmunds, which is gradually being consumed by nature





It was once a busy route connecting two towns but is now a tranquil spot gradually being consumed by nature.

The popular dog-walking path in Fornham St Martin, near Bury St Edmunds, was once part of the A134, which helped to connect Bury and Thetford.

Echoes of its former life can be glimpsed with cat's eyes guiding the way.

The popular dog-walking path in Fornham St Martin, near Bury St Edmunds, was once part of the A134. Picture: Martyna Wiecha
The popular dog-walking path in Fornham St Martin, near Bury St Edmunds, was once part of the A134. Picture: Martyna Wiecha
The road in 1995. Picture: Parish Archives
The road in 1995. Picture: Parish Archives

Recently, the abandoned road was showcased in Facebook group, ‘Ghost road – Abandoned, by-passed and roads to nowhere’, bringing up nostalgic memories for many.

SuffolkNews looks at the history of the lost route.

Today, as it has been for over three decades, the former road, off the B1106, is closed to traffic.

It helped to connect Bury St Edmunds and Thetford. Picture: Martyna Wiecha
It helped to connect Bury St Edmunds and Thetford. Picture: Martyna Wiecha

Although, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact date it was shut for good, Matthew Kemsley, a local historian, estimates it was closed around 1992 when a bypass was built.

The once major road would have been a popular route for those stationed at RAF Honington to come to Bury for a pint on the weekend, said Matthew.

Those driving from Culford to Bury would have to stop at a T-junction to let the traffic on the A134 through.

The road has been closed for over three decades. Picture: Martyna Wiecha
The road has been closed for over three decades. Picture: Martyna Wiecha

Now the eerily quiet route, which has been blocked off with a metal gate, has been unused for so long that moss has started to grow on the former road.

The only reminder of its past are the cat’s eyes and faint white road marking poking out from overgrowing vegetation.

Only dog walkers are able to bypass the barriers and enjoy a circular walk which joins The Drift at the opposite end of the village.

The only reminder of its past are the cat’s eyes and faint white road marking. Picture: Martyna Wiecha
The only reminder of its past are the cat’s eyes and faint white road marking. Picture: Martyna Wiecha

One member of the Facebook group said: “I love this bit of road/footpath. It always reminds me of the Walking Dead.”

Another added: “Remember driving on that road in the 1980s when we lived at RAF Honington.

“It was the way into Bury in those days or you could go straight towards the A14.”

Do you remember the road? Comment below.