Transport for London (TfL) has completed the refurbishment of the Grade II listed Chiswick Bridge.
The restoration has included the installation of new safer cycling and walking lanes.
Refurbishment of the 82-year-old bridge, which crosses the River Thames, has included restoring its heritage features to their former glory, as well as extensive concrete repairs and strengthening of the bridge’s parapets to extend its life. Highly skilled stonemasons conserved much of the original stonework in its original position. Where stonework on the parapets had deteriorated beyond repair, replacements were sourced from the same quarry that supplied the original Portland stone back in the 1930s.
A new segregated walkway and cycleway has been installed, as well as new heritage lighting placed across the bridge deck and staircases to help maintain its classic 1930s look.
Garrett Emmerson, chief operating officer for surface transport, said: “Restoring the Grade II listed Chiswick Bridge has been a labour of love for both our engineers and contractors. As well as providing a vital river crossing, the bridge also provides storage to local rowing clubs and is an excellent viewing point for the annual Boat Race. I am sure that local residents and drivers alike will welcome this spruce up to a much loved heritage structure in west London.”
Cllr Steve Curran, Hounslow Council Leader, added: “Restoring this historic gem was essential – it’s one of the nicest places to cross the Thames – millions of people will recognise it from the Boat Race. The bridge was opened to ease congestion in 1933 and it’s still a vital part of our transport infrastructure in 2015. We’re grateful to TfL for managing to keep the disruption caused by the essential works to a minimum and that the bridge now has a new lease of life to keep it in use for generations to come.”
