A popular London bridge which carried thousands of motorists across the River Thames every day has now been closed to traffic for well over five years.

Hammersmith Bridge located in west London was closed to vehicles back in April 2019. 

Car traffic were stopped from using the iconic route after engineers discovered some hairline cracks in the bridge.

A year later, pedestrians and cyclists were stopped from using the bridge for one year in August 2020 over safety concerns.

The bridge used to carry around 22,000 motor vehicles every day and is considered an important transport link connecting Hammersmith and Fulham to Richmomd.

Transport for London (TfL) said they were working with Hammersmith and Fulham Council to reopen the bridge to traffic “as soon as possible”.

They confirmed that work has been undertaken to strengthen bridge pedestals from the risk of structural problems.

Meanwhile, they stressed that a long-term plan for strengthening the bridge is currently being developed.

Last year, the construction of a temporary double-decker structure was considered.

This would have allowed motorists to cross the river while sections of the original Grade II-listed bridge were fixed.

However, experts stressed it would still take years to construct if the green light was given to build a new structure.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has previously stressed he did want Hammersmith Bridge to reopen for vehicles.

Hammersmith Bridge was built in the 1880s for £82,000, equivalent to around £11million today.

But, speaking at Mayor's Question Time back in October, Mr Khan confirmed TfL would only help pay for then works if a new long-term Government funding agreement was agreed.

He said: “I know that reinvigorating progress on resolving the long-term closure of Hammersmith Bridge is a priority for the new government.

“I continue to push for support, and I know City Hall, Transport for London (TfL) and the new government will continue to work closely, and to discuss next steps with relevant stakeholders.

“I’ve always been clear that TfL’s commitment to funding a share of any works in respect of Hammersmith Bridge is contingent on a broader, sustainable and long-term funding agreement from the Government that would enable the maintenance of vital infrastructure and road assets in London.”