One of the oldest bridges over the Thames is now fully reopened after major repair works 

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Kingston Bridge over the River Thames in South West London reopened at the start of May after a £600,000 makeover. 

Grade II* the bridge had more than 230 parts of its structure replaced and was closed to the public for almost a year.

Kingston Bridge is one of the oldest over the Thames and was the only bridge between Staines Bridge and London Bridge for hundreds of years.

Its original wood structure dates back to 1219 and the current stone bridge was opened in 1828 and later widened with bus and cycle lanes added.

More recently, the bridge carries the A308 across the Thames, joining Kingston town centre to Hampton Court Park, Bushy Park and Hampton Wick.

The major repair works started on 18 July, 2022, after Kingston Council appointed contractors to carry out the scheme.

The works saw the complete closure of a footpath and cycle lane on one side of the bridge at all times and other off-peak lane closures in one direction at a time.

The scheme was due to be completed by March this year, but the full reopening was pushed back so more repairs could be carried out. 

The works also included a full cleaning of the bridge with graffiti removed from the structure.
 

Councillors John Sweeney, Nicola Nardelli and Ian Manders with Kingston Council officers at the Kingston Bridge reopening. Photo from Kingston Council

A Kingston Council spokesperson said: “We are delighted that our historic Grade II* listed Kingston Bridge is now fully open again following restoration works.

“The extensive work, which involved the replacement of over 230 elements including balustrades on both sides of the bridge, required expert contractors skilled in repairing Grade II* listed structures.

“At the same time, we also undertook a full clean up of the bridge, removing graffiti and refreshing the bridge surrounds. 

“The project has been delivered exactly to specification and was completed in time for the King’s Coronation celebrations in the borough.

“We would like to thank all local residents for their patience while the work was completed.

“Kingston Bridge is not only an important part of our heritage but is also vital for our transport infrastructure.

“This work has ensured the future of the bridge for years to come and makes Kingston an even more attractive place to live and work.”

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