From next week [16 March], an essential maintenance and waterproofing programme will see a seven-month closure of London Bridge to all traffic except buses, licensed taxis, cyclists and pedestrians - with all other road users diverted to nearby bridges.

Walking routes over London Bridge are expected to be much busier than usual, with footways restricted throughout the vital works.

Roads on the approaches to London Bridge north and south of the river will also be busier than usual, especially when traveling during the peak times of 07:00 - 09:00 and 16:00 - 19:00 on weekdays.

Cyclists will be required to share the road with buses and licensed taxis and may find they have a better journey by travelling outside of the busiest times or by using a different route, such as Southwark Bridge.

The vital work is to replace the original protective waterproofing layer below the road surfacing, along with 24 of the original bearings, and will ensure the bridge remains operational for years to come.

Any other essential repairs to the concrete deck will be carried out at the same time, to minimise future disruption.

The programme will be carried out in two stages.

Stage One: Works to the western side, will run from March - May.

Stage Two: Works to the eastern side, will run from May - October.

People travelling in the area are advised to plan their journey in advance and to consider travelling at off-peak times or taking alternative routes. Full travel advice is available at www.tfl.gov.uk/london-bridge-works

-ENDS-

Notes to editors

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

About the London Bridge waterproofing programme

• London Bridge is owned and maintained by the Bridge House Estates. The City of London Corporation is the trustee of the Bridge House Estates and manages maintenance of London Bridge, as well as four other Thames Crossings owned by Bridge House Estates. Transport for London (TfL) manage the road over the bridge, the A3, as part of the TLRN (Transport for London Road Network). TfL are working with the City of London Corporation to manage the impact of these works to the network.
• FM Conway have been appointed to carry out the works.
• See the project page at www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/londonbridgewaterproofing
• Travel advice can be found at www.tfl.gov.uk/london-bridge-works