Hammersmith Bridge is unlikely ever to reopen to cars after a funding black hole ruled out the £300 million full restoration, leaving residents facing permanent travel disruption.
The Grade II listed crossing has been closed to motor traffic for years, with only pedestrians and cyclists allowed, while bus diversions have caused gridlock in Putney and beyond. Now a report by Hammersmith and Fulham Council, which owns the bridge, has dashed hopes of a return to vehicle use. “There is no financial option available that would allow its full restoration,” the report states.
“Hammersmith Bridge will not reopen to cars after a £300m funding black hole, a council report confirms.”
The government had recommended the borough apply for funding for a phased repair instead, prompting the council to bid for £128 million — but with a deadline of March 2030, a full fix is “plainly not achievable in that timespan”. The council has already spent £54 million on repairs to keep the bridge safe for walking and cycling.
Fleur Anderson, the MP for Putney, said she was “deeply disappointed” that the council had opted for the £128 million plan “rather than advocating for the full £300 million needed to restore the bridge for buses and other vehicles”. She added: “I have fought hard for the reopening and will carry on. H&F Council has already invested £54 million in repairs to ensure the safety of the bridge, and it is unreasonable to expect them to bear additional financial burdens.” Anderson noted that six bus routes have been cut, with “significant daily consequences for residents in Roehampton and Putney”.
A Department for Transport spokesperson said repair and maintenance was the council’s responsibility, but confirmed the government had provided £17 million to keep the bridge open for walking and cycling. “We will continue to work closely with the council and Transport for London as we consider future funding,” the spokesperson added.
The decision has reignited concerns about ageing London bridges, with a weight limit recently imposed on Vauxhall Bridge following structural issues. For residents on both sides of the river, the prospect of permanent car-free status at Hammersmith Bridge now seems all but certain.