Minimising travel disruption during Albert Bridge closure  

RBKC took the decision to close the bridge after a routine safety check identified a cast iron component had cracked at one of the bridge abutments. The bridge has been closed as a precaution while engineers and bridge experts are checking to ensure there is not any other damage and establish why the crack has occurred.

We recognise how heavily local people rely on Albert Bridge as a key route in and out of the borough, particularly at a time when travel is already strained by the long‑term closure of Hammersmith Bridge. We are taking steps to reduce disruption as much as possible.

The council is arranging clearer diversion signage south of the river to help road users in Wandsworth navigate alternative routes. Discussions are also under way with Transport for London (TfL) about installing temporary traffic lights at key junctions to help keep traffic moving.

In addition, the council has requested that TfL review signal timings for all traffic lights on Battersea Bridge Road, including the junction of Parkgate Road, to ensure they are operating as efficiently as possible under these latest conditions. It will also seek to limit all non-essential works in the area where possible to prevent any further disruption.

Cllr Jenny Yates, Cabinet Member for Transport at Wandsworth Council, said: “We know how frustrating and disruptive this sudden closure of Albert Bridge is for residents and businesses.

“Essential safety checks must be carried out to ensure public safety, as communicated by the London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, and we will do everything within our power to ease the impact locally.

“We’re in close contact with Kensington and Chelsea, TfL and with our own teams to keep residents informed and minimise disruption caused by the bridge closure wherever possible.”

The bridge remains open to pedestrians, and traffic diversions are in place via Chelsea Bridge and Battersea Bridge.

RBKC expects to complete initial checks by Friday 20 February 2025 and be able to provide further information on a timeline for repairs after the results have been analysed, within the next fortnight.

Residents are advised to check for updates on Kensington and Chelsea Council’s news pages when planning travel.

Read Kensington and Chelsea Council's statement about the bridge.