The expansion of a bridge over a railway line is set to cause severe disruption to several parts of Sutton for more than a year.

Hackbridge’s London Road bridge, a two-way road over the rail station, is due to be enlarged as part of the Smarter Travel Sutton project, so cycle lanes can be added to it.

Work is set to start in October and last no less than 15 months, according to the council.

The bridge will remain open during the work, but with only one lane available at a time.

Traffic flow will be controlled by traffic lights.

Car and lorry drivers will be asked to take alternative routes through Carshalton, Wallington and even Croydon while the bridge is being expanded.

Councillor Colin Hall, executive member for environment on Sutton Council, said: “Work will begin on major improvements to the road bridge in October this year which aims to improve the safety of cyclists, pedestrians and motorists and reduce accidents on and around the bridge.

“It will be widened to take two footpaths and two cycle lanes in a project funded by Transport for London.

“There will be some disruption with traffic restricted to one lane at times and controlled by traffic lights.

“Signs will be put up warning drivers of delays and suggesting other routes while the work is taking place.

“There will also be regular updates on the council website.”

Smarter Travel Sutton was launched in September 2006, to get more people cycling and walking to school and work.

“In 2007, personalised travel advisors visited 70,000 homes in Sutton, speaking to two-thirds of householders to offer free support and advice about travelling around the borough.

For more information on the scheme visit smartertravelsutton.org.

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