Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Lydia Chantler-Hicks

Londoners seeking view of New Year's Eve fireworks urged to 'stay away' from Tower Bridge and London Bridge

Londoners looking for a free glimpse of the capital's fireworks display this New Year's Eve are being urged to "stay away" from Tower Bridge and London Bridge.

Recent years have seen revellers flock to the landmarks, leaving them congested with people.

But City Bridge Foundation, which owns and maintains the river crossings, warns neither offer a view of London's main fireworks display.

To ease overcrowding and avoid disappointment, the charity is asking people to stay away this December 31.

“It’s no surprise people think of Tower Bridge when they’re looking for an iconic location to view the fireworks from, but the fact is, the view from there is non-existent," said City Bridge Foundation chairman Giles Shilson.

“The bend in the river and tall buildings in the way mean you can’t see the fireworks from Tower Bridge or London Bridge, so if you go there, you’ll only be disappointed.

“In previous years, we’ve seen thousands of people congregating on the bridges, which presents a danger to pedestrians and motorists.

“To help us keep our bridges clear and make sure everyone is safe, we’re asking people without tickets to stay away this year. You’ll get a much better view watching the fireworks at home on TV.”

Stewards will be on patrol on both bridges on New Year's Eve, along with a "significant" police presence to help ensure people stay safe.

The Mayor of London's annual New Year's Eve fireworks take place in Westminster near the London Eye and Big Ben, with dedicated viewing areas along Victoria Embankment, Waterloo and Westminster bridges and parts of the South Bank.

Tickets for this year's fireworks event are sold out, but those without a ticket are able to watch the display live on BBC One or via BBC iPlayer.

Commander Umer Khan OBE, from City of London Police, said: “The City of London is a vibrant, exciting place to be in London, offering the best bars, pubs and restaurants. This New Year’s Eve, we’re fully prepared to welcome visitors to the City, whilst working with partners to prevent, detect and act on any criminality.

“The fireworks near the London Eye provide a centrepiece to seeing in the new year.

"Tower Bridge and London Bridge are iconic landmarks, but people expecting to be able to see the display need to know that the fireworks are not visible from these locations.

“Tower Bridge and London Bridge are outside the event footprint and will be open to traffic. In the interest of public safety, we’re urging people not to stop on those bridges on New Year’s Eve to try and see the fireworks display.”

More information about the New Year’s Eve fireworks is available here.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.