London Bridge Repair Fury: £250m Cost and a Possible 2030s Reopening?

Hey, you know that Hammersmith Bridge in London? It’s been closed to cars for six years now. They found cracks in the old design back in April 2019. It’s causing major headaches for people.

Commutes are longer, especially by bus. Fixing the structure isn’t going so well. Around 22,000 cars used it daily before it closed.

Repair costs jumped to £250 million. They first estimated it would cost £40 million. Transport for London (TfL) did strengthen some parts. A real plan is still being developed though.

London’s mayor wants government funding first. There was a funding deal idea from 2021. It involved the local council, government, and TfL splitting costs. Rachel Reeves wanted it open before the election.

Someone thinks it may not reopen until the mid-2030s. Pedestrians and cyclists may get access this spring. The delay is making people upset.

One person pointed out Notre Dame was rebuilt faster. Another person finds it depressing to wait ten more years. They say the government needs to pay. She said local groups can’t afford it.

The government said the situation is tough. They are working with the council and TfL on repairs.