River Lea Crossing

We're refurbishing the entire structure of the bridge at the River Lea Crossing, both above and below the bridge deck. This is part of our ongoing efforts to improve safety and reliability across the London's road network.

Fortifying the crossing for the long term will cut the need for emergency repairs that often disrupt traffic and local communities.

The refurbishment is being done by VolkerFitzpatrick, the lead delivery partner appointed by Road Management Services (RMS). RMS is responsible for operating and maintaining a 25km section of the A13, including the River Lea Crossing.

What we're doing

The refurbishment of the River Lea Crossing will be done in 2 major phases:

Below the bridge deck - this phase involves replacing steelwork and painting underneath the bridge. It has no effect on road traffic on the bridge
On the bridge deck - beginning in November 2024, this phase will involve waterproofing, resurfacing, and installing new bridge parapets. Because of the nature of this work, traffic management will be needed. We aim to reduce the impact on commuters, local residents, and other road users, although some disruption is expected

Why we're doing the work

The refurbishment of the River Lea Crossing is crucial for:

Safety - strengthening the bridge will ensure it remains safe to use, reducing the risk of accidents
Reliability - doing this extensive maintenance now significantly reduces the need for emergency repairs (often more disruptive and costly)
Longevity - these improvements are designed to keep the crossing functional and efficient for decades to come

What we've done so far

Since we began the work under the bridge deck in August 2024, we've installed a navigation channel and deployed a safety boat in the river.

We've also installed scaffolding below the bridge for access to working areas.

What's next

Shot blasting, cleaning and priming works will take place until January 2025. Replacing the steelwork underneath the bridge will take place until August 2025.

Our first phase of work above the bridge deck will be done from November 2024 to January 2025. During this phase, we'll also work on the central reservation, as well as clearing the site and installing temporary street lighting.

Our next phase of work above the bridge deck will be starting in January and will be complete in February 2025. In this phase, we'll be working on the eastbound carriageway to carry out resurfacing and waterproofing works.

Timeline

2019-2022: Project development
2022-2023: Detailed design stage
August 2024: Start of below deck works
September 2024: Start of above deck works
May 2025: End of above deck works
Autumn 2025: End of works

Minimising impact

We'll be installing several phases of traffic management during our above-deck work. Work will be done in phases to keep traffic moving and to minimise disruption as much as possible.

We're only installing traffic management when needed and keeping at least two lanes open in both directions at all times.