Hammersmith Bridge carriageway is open*
The Bridge now boasts clearly separated pedestrian and cycle lanes - story 60
*For walkers, wheelers and cyclists.
Department for Transport invested £2.9m in the decking as well granting Hammersmith & Fulham Council £4.7m for works to support the bridge hangers which connect the deck to the suspension chains.
The Bridge looks transformed. Replacing those 1,000 ‘deteriorated deck and footway panels’ refreshes the carriageway.
“This investment has allowed us to re-open the main carriageway while carrying out essential structural work,” said Cllr Sharon Holder, Cabinet Member for Public Realm at Hammersmith & Fulham Council. “We’re proud to support safe, inclusive travel for all residents.”
Engineers reinforce the Bridge’s 172 hangers, which connect the deck to suspension chains. Temporary steel rods have been installed to relieve pressure, and permanent repairs are planned. Regular joint greasing supports the bridge’s movement, ensuring its continued operation.
This view - from my e-bike - starts on the northern or Hammersmith end.
You can find all the details on the H&F website. The initial impression is of a high quality development. The new side protection fences are both more useful and less obtrusive.
Despite the progress, London Daily reports
the bridge remains classified as “sub-standard” and requires ongoing monitoring and significant further work. Temporary steel rods have been installed to relieve pressure on the overstressed hangers, with permanent repairs and the replacement of ageing deck-end bearings still ahead.
The forest of signs, bollards and signs at both ends of the Bridge is disappearing. this view of the Barnes side shows the plastic red and white barriers are all that remain.
More on the re-opened Bridge to follow.