A local council-owned suspension bridge over the Thames, which has been closed because of microcracks since 2019, has had a cash boost from the UK government to keep it open to cyclists and pedestrians during strengthening work.
The cast-iron and wood Hammersmith Bridge was closed to everyone except pedestrians in 2019 while strengthening work took place. The bridge was then closed to everyone, including river traffic, in August 2020. In July 2021, the bridge was reopened to non-motorised traffic and boats were allowed to pass underneath. Cyclists were permitted but had to walk their bikes across.
In February, bridge owners Hammersmith and Fulham Council opened a cycle lane down the middle of the bridge which can be used by bicycles, cargo bikes and e-scooters (link opens in new tab).
The US$3.6 million funding from the UK government will allow resurfacing of this cycle lane.
The funding of the strengthening work is presently under discussion between Hammersmith and Fulham Council, the UK Government and Transport for London.
