Plans to allow cars back on to Hammersmith Bridge have been thrown into chaos after a £300m repair bill proved too steep. The estimated cost of making the Victorian-era crossing safe for motor vehicles has soared, sparking concerns that the iconic west London bridge will remain car-free indefinitely.
The bridge was closed to traffic in April 2019 due to cracks in its pedestals and further damaged by a heatwave in August 2020. It partially reopened to pedestrians and cyclists in July 2021, with monitoring in place to ensure safety. Initial estimates for repairs were lower, but detailed assessments revealed extensive work is needed on the bridge's main structure, suspension system, and pedestals.
The decision will hit commuters hard, forcing them to rely on alternative routes like Putney Bridge and Chiswick Bridge, which have already seen increased traffic and congestion. Local businesses that rely on the bridge for decades have also been affected.
For years, Transport for London (TfL), the Department for Transport (DfT) and the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham have debated funding options for the Grade II* listed bridge designed by Joseph Bazalgette. Now, the focus will shift from reopening to cars to securing long-term stability and finding more cost-effective solutions for maintenance.