Putney Bridge works complete ahead of schedule

The project has introduced upgraded traffic signals which offer a count-down at the crossing for pedestrians, and a detector to cancel the green man cycle if the pedestrian has already crossed or walked away. There are also small, eye-level traffic lights which permit cyclists to move off the advanced stop line a few seconds before the vehicles behind.  

Pedestrian islands have either been removed to create more road space on the junction or moved back and made bigger, to create a simpler route at easier crossing points. The aim of this is to reduce the number of people tempted to cross the road while on a red man signal. 

For cyclists, a new segregated northbound cycle lane has been created from the Putney Bridge Road junction up to Putney Bridge to enhance safety through the junction and onto the bridge, as well as to keep bicycles and vehicles separated for as much of the journey as possible. 

Councillor Jenny Yates, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “It was high time the Council took steps to improve safety and accessibility on this vital junction. 

“I am delighted we have completed the works on the new junction ahead of schedule.  I know they caused disruption to residents and would like to thank everyone for their patience while the works were carried out. 

“This project is a great example of how we’re investing in our borough’s infrastructure.” 

Throughout the works, the Council listened to residents’ feedback and took steps where possible to ease the impact. The engineering team worked 7am to 7pm on weekdays and 8am to 6pm on Saturdays. When the work didn't exceed noise limits, the team were also able to work on Sundays and at night. This was to make sure the work could be completed as quickly as possible and minimise the effect on residents. 

The maximum number of lanes for traffic was maintained, while still allowing for the required safe working zone for our staff, and this was regularly assessed. Bus lanes were reinstated early on and as a priority, to enable faster journey times for those using public transport and bus stops that were temporarily suspended were promptly reopened in liaison with TfL. 

The temporary traffic lights used throughout the works were directly linked to TfL offices, enabling staff to monitor and change the lights in real time, responding to live traffic situations. 

Transport for London's Walking and Cycling Commissioner, Will Norman, said: "The completion of the Putney Bridge improvements marks a significant step forward in making south west London’s roads safer and more efficient, enabling people to safely cross the roads as they visit the shops and amenities on the high street. We look forward to continuing to work closely with Wandsworth and investing in boroughs to deliver safe and active travel schemes, making walking and cycling more accessible to all."

Look back at the story of the Putney Bridge junction improvement works:

• Putney Bridge works begin
• Putney Bridge first update
• Putney Bridge second update