Hammersmith Flyover Faces Possible Closure

Survey shows structure needs emergency repair work

Hammersmith Flyover is to require emergency repair works after a survey discovered that the structure was in a worse condition than was originally anticipated.

Preliminary work will begin in October with the project expected to continue until Summer 2012 although it is expected that it will be finished in time for the Olympics.

No indication has been given as to the amount for time that the flyover will be closed for the works although TfL say they will aim to keep disruption to a minimum. The project is likely to add to problems in the Hammersmith area which is already suffering regular jams due to repairs on the Broadway, Fulham Palace Road and Hammersmith Bridge.

The four lane flyover, which crosses the Hammersmith gyratory and links the A4 Talgarth Road to the A4 Great West Road, was constructed in the 1960s and elements of the structure are approaching the end of their operational life.

TfL has been carrying out detailed monitoring inside the flyover since 2008, in particular checking the condition of the internal cables which help to hold the spans in place.

Recent results from this monitoring have shown that repair work needs to be carried out earlier than anticipated. TfL has therefore now begun work to design and carry out temporary bridge strengthening works to reinforce the spans. This will allow the structure to remain open to the public, while a more permanent option is developed.

Dana Skelley, Director of Roads at TfL, said: 'Although the flyover remains safe for road users to use, we are currently developing a temporary solution that will allow it to remain open for the next few years while a permanent solution is delivered.'

September 30, 2011