TfL moves forward with plans for Battersea Bridge after jogger’s death

Transport for London (TfL) is moving forward with its next phase of plans for Battersea Bridge, to reduce road danger.

TfL’s newest phase will be adding in new push-button pedestrian crossings in Cheyne Walk, Chelsea Embankment and Beaufort Street, at the north end of the bridge.

Improvements for cyclists at the junction at the north end, will also be implemented by installing cycle signals and a separated cycle lane.

The southern end of the bridge will see changes such as two new pedestrian crossings, an extended bus lane and wider pavements.

TfL accelerated plans to improve safety on the bridge following a campaign after the death of Jack Ryan on January 31, 2021.

Mr Ryan, 29, was struck by a Range Rover at the junction near the northern end of Battersea Bridge while he was jogging.

Chelsea resident and journalist, Rob McGibbon, started the campaign to improve safety at the junction after witnessing the aftermath of the Jack Ryan tragedy.

Mr McGibbon said: “I am delighted that the phase two works have been agreed and will go ahead. It will make a huge difference to thousands of pedestrians and cyclists that use this area.

“I would like to thank TfL and its officers for being so consultative throughout this process and for moving quickly to make this junction safer.

“The support for the campaign – from the public, the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea and from local residents’ associations – has been extraordinary and it goes to prove that change really can happen when people work positively together.”

The first phase of work on the north side of the  bridge was completed in November 2021 and included a new pedestrian crossing, wider pavements and a new lower speed limit of 20mph.

TfL consulted residents last year on the additional changes to the bridge. Results showed that 70 per cent of people expected more people would choose to travel by cycling and walking if the bridge was safer.

TfL has made some changes to the proposals in response to feedback they received during the consultation period.

Penny Rees, TfL’s head of Healthy Streets Investment, said: ”Every death and serious injury on London’s roads is unacceptable and we’re determined to make them safer for everyone.

“I’d like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation for their feedback, we’ll continue to work on our plans to improve safety in the area.”

TfL plans to begin work on the Battersea Bridge safety improvements this winter.

Pictured top: TfL map of Battersea Bridge plans (Picture: TfL)