Ibrahim Dogus has reported that Westminster City Council currently has no plans to restrict or close Waterloo Bridge because of its structural condition.
The Labour councillor for Waterloo and South Bank said he sought clarification following concerns raised about the bridge. In a Sunday update, he described a response from Westminster cabinet member Tim Mitchell.
According to Dogus, the council's concerns relate to kentledge boxes at either end of the bridge, which help reduce stress on adjoining spans. Restricted access makes remediation work challenging.
He said Westminster's preferred approach was to secure Department for Transport Structures Fund support and complete the work in one package. If that funding is unavailable, the council would seek support through its normal capital programme, potentially requiring phased work.
Dogus said the bridge components continued to be inspected and monitored. He pledged to seek further information on funding, the works timetable and any implications for residents, businesses and transport users.
