The plan to reopen Hammersmith Bridge to vehicles has been canceled. The reason is that its repair would cost £300 million, an amount equivalent to building a new bridge from scratch. Since 2019, the bridge has only allowed pedestrians and cyclists. For residents, this means they will still be unable to use their cars and that a total closure is possible if no further funding arrives. The high cost prevents its full restoration.
The technical dilemma of restoring a 19th-century bridge 🏗️
The metal structure of the bridge, built in 1887, shows severe corrosion in its tie rods and joints. Engineers determined that any deep repair would require dismantling entire sections and reinforcing the foundation, a process that, due to its complexity and specialized materials, drives up costs. The alternative of a new bridge, with a modern design and lower maintenance, is more economically viable. The final decision was that the budget does not justify a partial restoration that would only extend the lifespan by a few years.
The bridge that became pedestrian by budget decree 🦆
In the end, the solution was to leave the bridge as is: a nice pedestrian walkway with river views. If cars no longer cross, at least the Thames ducks have less noise. Of course, if anyone has £300 million spare in their pocket, they can call the city council. Meanwhile, drivers will have to find another bridge or learn to walk. After all, the exercise won't hurt.