Work has begun delivering a new segregated cycle lane and removing some pedestrian crossing islands in a bid to improve safety at a key West London bridge.
Putney Bridge, which connects Wandsworth with Hammersmith and Fulham, and its approach on the south side of the Thames are to undergo a series of works which will also see traffic lights upgraded.
It is expected the scheme will take until Christmas, with Transport for London (TfL) operating temporary lights to help keep traffic moving.
Further improvements to the pavement and resurfacing the carriageway around the junction will be completed in 2025.
The project, on which works have begun on Monday, consists of three key elements: installing upgraded traffic lights at the junction of Putney High Street, Putney Bridge and Lower Richmond Road; removing some pedestrian islands; and introducing a new segregated northbound cycle lane from the Putney Bridge Road junction up to the crossing.
It will then connect with the existing cycle lane already on the bridge.
In a release announcing the plans, Wandsworth Council, which owns Putney Bridge, wrote that removing pedestrian islands will mean ‘it’ll take less time for people to cross the road, speeding up crossing times and reducing the temptation to cross without waiting for the green man’.
Some impact on traffic is expected, though a council spokesperson said driving patterns typically settle after the first couple of weeks once the public becomes aware of the changes.
A number of roadworks will also be scheduled at night in a bid to further reduce any potential issues.
Councillor Jenny Yates, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Wandsworth Council is committed to making local roads safer for all road users. I know how difficult it is to cross this junction so I’m really pleased the changes will make it safer for pedestrians and cyclists.”
