Wandsworth Bridge reopens after 10 weeks of repairs

Wandsworth Bridge reopened to traffic late last night after 10 weeks of repairs. 

Traffic across the bridge was back to normal for this morning’s commute.

Repairs began on July 24, after checks on the 83-year-old bridge revealed that some of its weight-bearing parts needed to be replaced.

The project repaired the crucial bearings which lie deep within the bridge’s substructure and new waterproofing of the bridge deck to prevent future corrosion.

Wandsworth council’s cabinet member for transport, Jenny Yates, said: “This was a complex and challenging set of repairs which were vitally important if the bridge was to remain in safe working condition.

“I’m absolutely delighted that we have got the job done on time and on budget. 

“We understand the closure to traffic has caused disruption and we’d like to apologise for the inconvenience it’s caused, but these repairs were absolutely essential and I’m really pleased we have completed the task when we said we would.

“I’d also like to pay tribute to the hardworking team of council engineers and contractors who have all done an excellent job in seeing this scheme through to a successful conclusion.”

A spokeswoman from the council warned passengers crossing the bridge that scaffolding and other equipment will remain in place for some time, while it is dismantled.

The council also said it plans to introduce a new segregated northbound cycle lane to offer protection to cyclists as they cross the river.

For more information about the project please visit www.wandsworth.gov.uk/wandsworthbridge.

Pictured top: Wandsworth Bridge (Picture: Maggie Jones/Flickr)