Officials warn Albert Bridge could remain closed for up to a year
The crossing in west London is 150 years old
Officials are warning the 150-year-old Albert Bridge in west London may be closed to traffic for up to year.
Engineers are carrying out urgent repairs after cracks were discovered earlier this month.
Kensington and Chelsea Council says it's working to reduce disruption - and it hopes to open the crossing more quickly if a 'temporary fix' is possible.
Cllr Johnny Thalassites, Kensington and Chelsea Council's lead member for planning and environment, said:
“Last week we promised to update our residents and motorists as soon as we know more about Albert Bridge. The early advice we have had following initial investigations suggests that we may be able to complete a permanent fix within a year. In the meantime, the investigative work continues. We are working with experts to find out if there are options to employ a temporary fix which I hope to update on as soon as we have the analysis. Our ambition remains to get this bridge open as soon as possible.
“I want to thank motorists for their ongoing patience, we know it is frustrating. But we know for now we have to close the road to avoid the risk of extra weight causing further damage that could make repair significantly more difficult, more lengthy and more expensive.”
Wandsworth Council has also shared its concerns about potential disruption caused by the closure.
A spokesperson said:
"We are working to minimise travel disruption and support residents and businesses following the unexpected closure of Albert Bridge by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC), which is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the bridge.
"RBKC took the decision to close the bridge after a routine safety check identified a cast iron component had cracked at one of the bridge abutments. The bridge has been closed as a precaution while engineers and bridge experts are checking to ensure there is not any other damage and establish why the crack has occurred.
"We recognise how heavily local people rely on Albert Bridge as a key route in and out of the borough, particularly at a time when travel is already strained by the long‑term closure of Hammersmith Bridge. We are taking steps to reduce disruption as much as possible.
"The council is arranging clearer diversion signage south of the river to help road users in Wandsworth navigate alternative routes. Discussions are also under way with Transport for London (TfL) about installing temporary traffic lights at key junctions to help keep traffic moving.
"In addition, the council has requested that TfL review signal timings for all traffic lights on Battersea Bridge Road, including the junction of Parkgate Road, to ensure they are operating as efficiently as possible under these latest conditions. It will also seek to limit all non-essential works in the area where possible to prevent any further disruption."