New Putney Bridge bus lane set to boost bus reliability and offer safer journeys for cyclists

A northbound bus lane is about to be installed as part of longer-term plans to improve traffic flows in the high street, improve air quality and provide safer routes for cyclists and pedestrians.

The new bus lane will not only improve bus journey times and timetable reliability, it will offer a wider and safer road space for cyclists than the existing narrow and unguarded northbound cycle lane.

Minor amendments will also be made to bus stops on the bridge to aid traffic flows and remove bottlenecks. 

The changes are scheduled to commence next week with the application of new road markings - but are dependent on the weather. 

The further phase of works will then see traffic signal improvements in and around the northern section of the high street scheduled for later this year. 

These signal works are being commissioned from Transport for London and are scheduled to take place shortly at the junction of the High Street and Putney Bridge Road - with further changes to signals planned this summer at the junction of Putney Bridge and the Lower Richmond Road. These are designed to smooth traffic flows, reduce tailbacks, improve cycle facilities and offer safer crossings for pedestrians.

Jenny Yates, Cabinet Member for Transport said: “These measures should help to reduce tailbacks and congestion in the high street and in its feeder routes like Putney Bridge Road and the Lower Richmond Road. Reducing congestion will also help further improve air quality levels in the high street.

“This wider programme of works will make travel safer for cyclists and pedestrians. Our aim is to implement these changes in the next few months, dependant on Transport for London completing its parts of the scheme.”

Councils in London are not permitted to make any changes whatsoever to traffic light timings or carry out traffic light repairs anywhere in the capital. Only TfL is able to carry out these tasks.      

The project forms part of a newly unveiled ten-year programme of improvements to tackle the deteriorating condition of Wandsworth’s roads and pavements.

Cllr Yates added: “Wandsworth is a fantastic place to live, but after years of under-investment its roads and pavements are showing too many signs of wear and tear. 

“I’ve been out with the council’s streets team to see for myself the roads and pavements most in need of urgent attention. We’ll be expanding our improvement works to include even more roads and pavements as we start a decade of renewal.

“We know that people expect to be able to walk, cycle and drive safely around their neighbourhoods. As a result, we will double the funding put into fixing our roads and pavements over the next decade. This additional investment is paid for by property developers, so we can improve the borough without adding a penny to your Council Tax. Our work is ambitious and we are proud to deliver this change for our residents.”