Hammersmith Bridge opens for cyclists after refurb

London, UKLocal News

Hammersmith Bridge reopened to cyclists after a £2. 9 million refurbishment, enhancing safety and accessibility for users. The 138-year-old structure has been closed to motor vehicles since April 2019 due to structural issues, including cracks in its pedestals. The new layout includes three lanes: one for northbound cyclists, another for southbound cyclists, and a two-way pedestrian path, while outer footways remain pedestrian-only. The London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham emphasizes improved accessibility, particularly for wheelchair users and e-cargo bikes.

The cost of necessary repairs has surged to £250 million, with financial responsibilities divided among the council, the Department for Transport, and Transport for London. A full reopening for motor vehicles is under consideration, with options like tolls or car bans being explored. Past proposals, including a suggestion to demolish the bridge, were rejected by a taskforce. The council has invested £48 million in restoration efforts since August 2020, including significant engineering work to ensure the bridge's structural integrity.

Related Articles

Pizza Hut reveals locations where restaurants will close

Pizza Hut plans to close 68 restaurants and 11 delivery outlets across the UK, resulting in 1,210 job losses. Administrators cite challenging trading conditions and increased costs as factors leading to the closures. Yum! Brands intervened to preserve 64 locations and 1,276 jobs.

Call to stop benefits for mentally ill offenders

A mother whose daughter was murdered by a mentally ill offender is advocating for changes to the benefits system that allows such offenders to receive financial support while detained in psychiatric hospitals. Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden has pledged to explore potential reforms to close this loophole. Victims' advocates are calling for immediate action to prioritize victims' rights in the justice system.

The public deserves better - Met phone theft lead

The Metropolitan Police's new lead on phone theft, Cdr Andy Featherstone, acknowledges the force's efforts against the crime have been insufficient, with only 1% of phone thefts resulting in charges. Following a significant operation that led to 18 arrests and the seizure of 2,000 devices, Garratt calls for a more aggressive approach to combat what he describes as an "epidemic."