Hammersmith Bridge

Hammersmith Bridge is a historic suspension bridge crossing the River Thames in west London. It links Hammersmith in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham to Barnes in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. The current bridge, designed by Sir Joseph Bazalgette, was completed in 1887 and is a Grade II* listed structure.

Initially opened in 1827, the first Hammersmith Bridge, designed by William Tierney Clark, was the first suspension bridge over the Thames. However, due to its inability to handle increasing traffic, it was replaced by the current bridge in the 1880s. The new bridge retained the original pier foundations but featured a more robust design to accommodate heavier loads.

Throughout its history, Hammersmith Bridge has faced numerous structural challenges and closures. It was temporarily closed in 1973 for refurbishment, which included replacing the deck timbers and improving the mid-span hangers. Further closures occurred in 1984, 1997, and 2014 for essential repairs. Despite these efforts, the bridge's condition has continued to deteriorate due to its age and the volume of modern traffic.

In April 2019, the bridge was closed indefinitely to motor traffic after cracks were discovered in its pedestals. This closure was extended to pedestrians and cyclists in August 2020 due to worsening structural issues compounded by a heatwave. Following a stabilisation plan, the bridge partially reopened to pedestrians and cyclists in July 2021.

Efforts to repair and fully reopen the bridge have faced significant financial challenges. In 2020, a proposal to temporarily double-deck the bridge was introduced to expedite its restoration. This plan, designed by Foster and Partners, involved installing a temporary steel structure within the existing bridge to facilitate repairs. The project, estimated at around £100 million, includes funding through tolls.

In 2024, Hammersmith & Fulham Council announced a temporary reopening for cyclists following delays caused by damage from a boat collision in late 2023. The cost of repairing the bridge has escalated to £250 million, with ongoing discussions about funding and alternative transport solutions.

Hammersmith Bridge has also been targeted by Irish republican groups in three bombing attempts, with significant attacks occurring in 1939, 1996, and 2000. These incidents have contributed to its complex history of structural vulnerabilities.

At both ends of the bridge, heraldic compositions feature the royal coat of arms of Queen Victoria and six others representing areas historically connected to the Metropolitan Board of Works.

Despite its challenges, Hammersmith Bridge remains a vital and iconic part of London’s infrastructure, with ongoing efforts to preserve and restore this historic structure.