Dear Resident,
Since Hammersmith Bridge closed in April, I’ve been working with local residents, and within government to lobby TfL to find an innovative, cost-effective and fast solution.
Last month, TfL and Hammersmith & Fulham Council (who own the bridge) chose an option that would repair the bridge at a cost of £120m over three years.
The effect of such a delay on the community and local businesses would be immense.
That’s why I’ve asked both government and TfL to consider a number of temporary options to ensure pedestrians, cyclists, cars, buses and emergency vehicles are able to cross the river from Barnes to Hammersmith as soon as possible, while the bridge itself is repaired.
A temporary bridge could be assembled within a matter of months and would cost a fraction of some of the cost estimates put forward for other solutions.
Historic England must approve these solutions however, as both the bridge and the current view of Hammersmith bridge are protected.
Which is why I’ve been working with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media & Sport, and the Minister for Heritage (who oversees Historic England) to request that Historic England give their permission.
But TfL and Hammersmith & Fulham Council are dragging their feet.
Hammersmith & Fulham Council recently poured cold water on a design for a temporary bridge, without proper consideration and just days after receiving the proposal.
TfL say they are considering a temporary bridge for cyclists and pedestrians, but not yet for motorists.
That is why I’m launching this consultation. I hope that by measuring local support for a temporary bridge, I will be able to make the case more strongly for a solution that benefits everyone in our local area.
So please complete the consultation overleaf and return it (free of charge) to my office.
I will be sharing the results with the local Councils, TfL and government ministers involved in this decision.
Yours,
Zac Goldsmith
MP for Richmond Park & North Kingston
Minister for the Environment and International Development
