Rotherhithe-Canary Wharf pedestrian and cycling bridge moves a step closer

A proposed east London river crossing to be designed by the consultancy giant Atkins has been given a boost after Transport for London (TfL) revealed huge backing by Londoners. 

Plans for a Rotherhithe-Canary Wharf pedestrian and cycling bridge have been supported by 93% of the 6,093 consultation respondents according to London’s transport body. It means TfL will now begin the process of drawing up more detailed designs for people to see and identify a construction timeline.

The construction of the crossing aims to encourage more people to walk and cycle in the area by providing additional capacity, while connecting the two areas of Canada Water and the Isle of Dogs. The mayor of London Sadiq Khan committed to the crossing in his manifesto after it was promoted by a wide number of stakeholders for over a decade.

Commenting on the results, deputy mayor for transport, Val Shawcross, said: “I’m delighted that thousands of people took part in the consultation, and have given us such overwhelming support for a new walking and cycling crossing between Rotherhithe and Canary Wharf. With its growing population, a new river crossing is much needed in this part of East London, providing vital new connections for residents, businesses and commuters around Canary Wharf. Our plans should enable thousands more people to make walking and cycling a part of their everyday lives, improving life for everyone.”

It's hoped the Rotherhithe-Canary Wharf crossing will alleviate pressure on the Greenwich foot tunnel which TfL say is “operating at capacity” during peak times. With little alternatives for cyclists and pedestrians crossing east of Tower Bridge, transport bosses believe the proposal should open up areas like Canada Water and Canary Wharf.

The consultation results come just days after it was announced that Atkins has landed the engineering and architectural contract deal to develop proposals and support the construction of the multi-million-pound crossing.

Gareth Powell, managing director of surface transport at TfL, said: “We are now working with Atkins, our design and engineering consultants, and local stakeholders to develop an accessible and achievable crossing that links to new and proposed walking and cycling routes on both sides of the river.”