Warning as Albert Bridge closes for repair works

Drivers have been told to avoid a central London bridge next week when it closes for essential maintenance work.

Kensington and Chelsea Council said Albert Bridge will close in both directions from 07:00 BST on 28 May until 07:00 on 1 June.

Some of the individual timber panels along the Grade II listed structure will be replaced during the closure.

Work is also expected to be carried out to the bridge’s lighting and ornamental features known as festoons.

A diversion will be in place for drivers via Chelsea Bridge or Battersea Bridge.

Works will also be taking place to the pavements but will be done in stages to ensure access for pedestrians at all times, the council said.

Cyclists have been encouraged to dismount.

Cem Kemahli, lead member of planning and public realm at the council, said: "Albert Bridge is an icon of the London skyline but it’s also an important river crossing.

"As a responsible guardian of the bridge, it’s crucial that we undertake essential maintenance so we can keep the bridge in good health and keep it operational now and in the future.

"We’re sorry for the short-term inconvenience this will cause to some drivers and their journeys and we hope we can limit some of this by doing the work during the half term holidays."

The council has also reminded the drivers of goods vehicles to avoid the bridge at all times if they weigh more than the three-tonne limit in place since January this year.

The council said it issued 2,811 fines in April alone, equalling £365,000, according to analysis by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The council said the fines are issued based on the vehicle’s official revenue weight, also known as the maximum gross weight, which drivers can check on the DVLA website.

Since January, hauliers breaching the three-tonne limit can expect to be fined £130.

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