Heavy goods vehicles over 18 tonnes are banned from London Bridge from today after engineering assessments revealed serious structural concerns. The City of London Corporation imposed the immediate restrictions as a precautionary measure whilst investigations continue into the historic crossing's condition.
The weight limit will force many HGVs to find alternative routes, creating longer journey times and higher costs for freight operators. Buses and emergency vehicles retain access to ensure public transport and critical services continue uninterrupted. Officials described the move as essential to protect the bridge whilst remedial works are planned.
London Bridge joins a growing list of Thames crossings buckling under structural problems. Hammersmith Bridge remains closed to all vehicles since 2019 due to critical faults, whilst Tower Bridge has faced similar weight restrictions. The pattern exposes systemic failures in maintaining the capital's transport arteries, leaving commuters and businesses bearing the cost.
Traffic chaos looms as alternative crossings face increased pressure from diverted heavy vehicles. Central London businesses dependent on freight deliveries must now rework logistics operations, adding expense and delays to already tight margins. The crisis underscores urgent questions about infrastructure investment across Britain's ageing transport network.
The recurring bridge closures highlight a reactive approach to maintenance that critics say costs far more than preventative measures. Opposition transport spokesperson Louise Haigh has repeatedly called for a national infrastructure strategy prioritising early intervention over emergency repairs, pointing to the economic damage inflicted on businesses and commuters.
Local authorities including the City of London Corporation continue seeking central government funding for major repairs, but the scale of London's bridge problems suggests current spending commitments fall well short of what's needed to prevent further disruption to the capital's vital transport links.