A weight restriction is being introduced on a west London bridge this week to stop it from facing a similar fate to Hammersmith Bridge.
Kensington and Chelsea Council (RBKC) is bringing in a three-tonne weight restriction on Albert Bridge from Thursday, January 11, with heavy goods vehicles fined for crossing the structure.
RBKC said that since Hammersmith Bridge is still out of action in neighbouring borough, Hammersmith and Fulham, it takes its responsibility to protect the river crossing “very seriously”.
Hammersmith Bridge was closed to vehicles on safety grounds in 2019, with no date set for its full reopening.
Cracks in the pedestals have led to motor vehicles being banned from using the 136-year-old cast iron structure since April 2019, leading to an increase in journey times for many.
Councillor Cem Kemahli, lead member for planning and public realm, said: “Hammersmith Bridge has been closed to motor traffic for five years.
“We don’t want to be in the same position here in Kensington and Chelsea which is why we are starting to enforce the weight restriction on Albert Bridge.
“The bridge is structurally sound and perfectly safe, but it is a listed structure and an important river crossing so we need to make sure we protect both the surface and the structure for the long term.”
Cameras have been installed on the north side of the bridge and drivers will be fined £130, reduced to £65 if paid within 14 days, for driving over the structure if their goods vehicle is over the weight limit.
