Photo: Martin Addison / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Network Rail has shared proposals for major refurbishment works to the railway bridge on Westminster Bridge Road, near Waterloo Station.

The works are needed because the bridge structure has reached the end of its operational life and requires significant repairs to protect the long-term reliability of the railway network serving Waterloo and Clapham Junction.

Current proposals indicate that works could begin in January 2027, following completion of other nearby works, and continue into autumn 2027. The programme includes bridge repairs, painting, structural works and the installation of bird-deterrent measures.

To enable the works, temporary traffic management arrangements are proposed on Westminster Bridge Road. These include:

• Changes to traffic lanes and traffic signal arrangements.
• Temporary suspension and relocation of bus stops.
• Temporary pedestrian crossings and pedestrian diversions.
• Temporary road layout changes affecting access to surrounding streets and junctions.

At a recent stakeholder meeting, concerns were raised about the potential impact on residents, businesses, buses, emergency services and traffic in the wider Waterloo area. Network Rail has agreed to:

• Organise public drop-in sessions for residents, businesses and community groups in December.
• Provide further information on measures to reduce traffic delays and congestion.
• Develop and share a communications plan with stakeholders.
• Review options for temporary bus stop locations with local stakeholders.

As your local councillors, we will continue to press Network Rail and all relevant agencies to minimise disruption, ensure residents and businesses are kept informed, and secure the strongest possible mitigation measures throughout the works.

We will share further information once the public engagement sessions are announced and more detailed plans become available.

Cllr Ibrahim Dogus
Labour Councillor for Waterloo & South Bank Ward