A historic bridge in London is set to impose a new weight restriction from July 1, effectively banning most heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) as the 120-year-old structure shows signs of deterioration. Transport for London (TfL) has announced an 18-tonne limit on Vauxhall Bridge, citing safety concerns following a recent assessment that revealed structural issues.
Safety-Critical Measure
TfL has described the 18-tonne limit as "safety critical" and will keep it in place while developing long-term plans to address the bridge's structural concerns. Emergency vehicles and buses will be exempt from the restriction, with no changes to their routes.
Carl Eddleston, TfL's director of streets and network operations, stated: "While the bridge remains safe, limiting heavier vehicles helps us protect and keep it open while we develop the long-term improvements it needs." He added: "Safety is our top priority, and we know how important Vauxhall Bridge is for people travelling across London. This is why we're taking this precautionary step to introduce a weight restriction to the bridge."
Traffic Impact
Vauxhall Bridge carries 39,500 vehicles daily, but only around 200—approximately 0.5% of current traffic—are heavier than 18 tonnes, typically HGVs. Signed diversion routes will be in place for vehicles exceeding the weight limit, both northbound and southbound. No bus routes will be affected, and emergency vehicles will continue to operate normally.
TfL conducts regular inspections of all structures across its road network, with refurbishment projects carried out as needed. The Labour Party government's Structures Fund, part of a £1 billion road repair package announced in June last year, supports such maintenance efforts.
