Project Centre, working on behalf of the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham (LBHF), delivered RIBA Stages 2–4 of segregated pedestrian and cycle facilities across Hammersmith Bridge, ahead of its reopening to cyclists and pedestrians on 17 April 2025.
With the bridge closed to general traffic for refurbishment, the council seized the opportunity to re-establish a vital section of TfL’s Cycleway C57 and provide safe, segregated lanes. The overarching goal was to enhance safety, accessibility, and sustainable travel, while maintaining connectivity between communities during the strengthening works.
Our approach
- Design and Safety Enhancements
The new deck layout introduced three distinct routes: northbound and southbound cycle lanes and a two-way pedestrian lane. This separation reduced conflict between users, improved safety, and encouraged active travel. Accessibility was prioritised by widening the pedestrian lane to accommodate wheelchair users and larger micromobility vehicles, such as e-cargo bikes. These can now pass through newly installed 1.2-metre Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) barriers.
- Hostile Vehicle Mitigation Measures
Vehicles remain prohibited from accessing the bridge during strengthening. To ensure security, concrete-filled barriers (‘barges’) were installed at road and footway access points. Designed with carefully measured gaps, they allow safe passage for pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchair users. This design followed recommendations from the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Security Adviser, embedding security into inclusive design.
- Wider Infrastructure and Community Integration
The scheme extended to the bridge approaches with raised crossings, traffic calming, planters, bus stop upgrades, and provision for community uses. These measures slowed vehicle speeds where access remains, reduced risks, and enhanced the sense of place.
- Community Engagement
LBHF and Project Centre engaged directly with residents near proposed HVM installation points. Property surveys were carried out to safeguard basements and avoid adverse impacts. Surveys were scheduled at residents’ convenience and conducted non-intrusively, demonstrating sensitivity to community concerns.
The results?
The project has already delivered clear benefits for both the council and local community. Early monitoring shows a marked increase in pedestrian and cyclist use of the bridge, with positive feedback from residents, accessibility groups, and businesses. Safer, segregated routes have reduced conflict, improved accessibility, and encouraged more people to walk and cycle.
These facilities will remain in place throughout the strengthening works, ensuring that a key Thames crossing continues to function for sustainable modes of travel. For LBHF, this safeguards connectivity, supports climate and health objectives, and demonstrates strong leadership in delivering inclusive, community-focused infrastructure.
Photo credit: Hammersmith Bridge-24 | Hammersmith & Fulham Council | Flickr
Speak to our team to find out more: Enquiries – Marston Holdings
