William Eichler 23 March 2021

Hammersmith Bridge could reopen as ‘double-decker crossing’

Hammersmith Bridge could reopen as ‘double-decker crossing’ image

Hammersmith Bridge could potentially reopen for pedestrians and cyclists next summer as a temporary double-decker crossing, the London borough has announced.

The Grade II listed bridge was closed to pedestrians and cyclists on public safety grounds last August after cracks in the cast iron pedestals widened during a heatwave.

Hammersmith & Fulham Council subsequently approached the architects and engineers Foster + Partners and the bridge engineers COWI who undertook a technical study to assess whether a double-decker crossing could be supported by the existing bridge foundations.

The study has concluded that the plan is feasible and will cost around £100m, which represents a £40m saving on the council’s current restoration plan.

Council leader Stephen Cowan will discuss the findings of the feasibility study with Foster + Partners and COWI at next week’s meeting of the Government’s Hammersmith Bridge Taskforce.

The council has also submitted an Outline Financial Plan to the secretary of state for transport, Grant Shapps, for the bridge restoration work to be funded through a toll or road charging scheme.

Early assessments indicate that motorists might pay an average of £3 to drive across the bridge, the ownership of which could be transferred to a charitable trust.

Commenting on the plans to reopen the 134-year-old bridge, Cllr Cowan said: ‘Hammersmith Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the world and the most expensive in Britain to repair.

‘So, while we’re working to fully restore the bridge as quickly as possible, we’re also determined to put in place the necessary governance and long-term funding arrangements that will make sure it is properly maintained well into the next century.’

Photo: Foster + Partners/COWI

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Director of People

Lancashire County Council
£108,697 - £117,998
As a leader at Lancashire County Council, you’ll join an authority with real scale, courageous ambition and deep pride in place. County hall
Recuriter: Lancashire County Council

Director of Strategy and Transformation

Lancashire County Council
£108,697 - £117,998
As a leader at Lancashire County Council, you’ll join an authority with real scale, courageous ambition and deep pride in place. Preston, Lancashire
Recuriter: Lancashire County Council

Care and Support Assistant -Longlands

West Northamptonshire Council
13.52ph
About the role We are looking for a dedicated Care and Support Worker to join our team at Longlands Care Home in Daventry. In this rewarding role, you will provide compassionate, person-centred care to older people and those living with dementia, includin Daventry
Recuriter: West Northamptonshire Council

Highway Design and Construction Manager

Bolton Council
Grade N, scp50 £62,443 to scp53 £65,663 per annum, plus essential car user allowance
We embrace AI to enhance our operations and to innovate our services. Bolton, Greater Manchester
Recuriter: Bolton Council

Social Worker - Huddersfield Royal Infirmary

Kirklees Metropolitan Council
£38,220 - £40,777
Looking to appoint as a Level 2 or Level 3 Social Worker. Kirklees, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Kirklees Metropolitan Council
Linkedin Banner