London’s most iconic bridge will close to traffic and pedestrians for three days – to allow essential maintenance to take place.
Tower Bridge will remain in the raised position for long periods while work is carried out over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
The visitor attraction will remain open throughout, but visitors are asked to book their ticket in advance and enter only via the ticket office on the north side, nearest to the Tower of London.
The essential repairs are being carried out at no cost to the taxpayer by Bridge House Estates – the 900-year-old charity which owns and maintains Tower Bridge and four other Thames crossings.
Giles Shilson, Chairman of the Bridge House Estates Board, said:
“As well as being a defining landmark of London, Tower Bridge is one of the capital’s key arteries and the wear and tear of daily traffic naturally affects the structure, which celebrates its 130th birthday next year.
“We appreciate that the closure will cause some inconvenience but this work is essential to the smooth operation of the bridge, and will ensure it can continue to do its job for decades to come.
“The bridge will continue to welcome visitors throughout the Bank Holiday weekend, but it’s important that people know they need to book in advance and to enter the bridge from the north side.”
The work will replace metal plates at the rear of the bascules – the moving parts of the bridge – which have become damaged through wear and tear.
The bridge will close to traffic and pedestrians at 10pm on Friday, 25 August and reopen late on Monday, 28 August, unless the work is completed earlier.
Signed diversion routes will be in place via Southwark Bridge.
Marine traffic will continue to be able to pass under the bridge at pre-agreed times via the normal arrangements.
More information about visiting inside the attraction at Tower Bridge over the Bank Holiday weekend is available at www.towerbridge.org.uk
