Government Considering TfL Bid for Hammersmith Bridge Funding

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Unwilling to give timescale for decision despite project being 'shovel ready'


Picture: Richmond Council

The Government says it has not ruled out providing funds to repair Hammersmith Bridge, following fierce criticism from Richmond Council.

The landmark Grade II*-listed crossing closed to traffic in April last year after dangerous cracks were found in its iron pedestals.

City Hall and Hammersmith and Fulham Council predict it may not reopen until 2023, and that strengthening and repair works will cost up to £120 million.

Both authorities have come under huge financial strain since the coronavirus pandemic, and were already calling on the Government to step in and provide the majority of the funds.

When TfL published details of its revised budget on 29 July, it said repairing the bridge was “contingent on Government funding for implementation”.

The funding row was reignited this week by the deputy leader of Richmond Council, Alexander Ehmann. He attacked housing ministers for not including Hammersmith Bridge in a list of “shovel ready” infrastructure projects that will receive funding from a pot of £1.3 billion.

On July 30, Mr Ehmann said: “You asked for shovel ready projects, Mr Johnson, well here’s one which is practically on your doorstep…

“At the moment the future of both the temporary footbridge and the major repair works are hanging in the balance. With costs estimated at well over £100m – if they don’t pay – who will?”

However, a spokesperson for the Department for Transport this Thursday (6 August ) said, “We recognise Hammersmith Bridge’s importance and understand the concern around the additional congestion caused by its closure. We’re currently considering TfL’s bid for funding and will respond in due course.”

Hammersmith and Fulham Council did not wish to comment.

Meanwhile, TfL’s plans to build a temporary foot and cycle crossing beside the bridge are still progressing. It would be made from prefabricated steel and supported by two piers in the river. Its path would be 5.5 metres wide.

TfL said in its revised budget that it has “additional” funding to build the temporary bridge. A planning application has not yet been submitted to Hammersmith and Fulham Council.


Owen Sheppard - Local Democracy Reporter

August 6, 2020