Wandsworth (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Major transformation work is under way on Falcon Road bridge in Wandsworth, aiming to improve safety, structure, and transport flow in the area.
A new paint system for the bridge’s structures, improved lighting, pigeon proofing, landscaping on the south side, and new artwork cladding running the length of both walls beneath the bridge are all part of the project.
During its year as London Borough of Culture, the Falcon Road bridge refurbishment will use murals and community-focused art to honor local landmarks, enhancing the area and fostering a sense of pride. Property developers’ donations will be used to cover this, and Wandsworth Council Tax will not be increased in any way.
After the council heard the opinions of local businesses and people as well as input from the Night Time Strategy and Clapham Junction masterplan surveys, the new design will address important community concerns like safety, illumination, and noise reduction.
These enhancements come after a thorough resident involvement process that included workshops and a survey with over 1,000 responses to select the best design team for the underpass overhaul. In order to leave a lasting legacy, the design was developed over several months of community interaction and events by the collaborative design team, which was led by GPAD and POoR Collective.
Simon Hogg, Leader of Wandsworth Council, said:
“As part of our Decade of Renewal, we are making long overdue improvements to Falcon Road bridge. This is a key route through Clapham Junction town centre which is used by the local community every day and we listened to their concerns. The work will transform the underpass into a safer, cleaner and more attractive place, making improvements that residents have told us they want to see.”
The work, in partnership with Network Rail, started on 21 July and will take approximately five months, with overnight closures under the bridge for three weeks from 28 July. The underpass is set to be completed in December 2025.
Falcon Road will be blocked in both directions for three weeks starting on July 28 from 9.30 p.m. to 5.30 a.m. This is to have the railway bridge’s underbelly ready and painted. There will be two traffic management operational staff on duty at all times, and there will be clearly marked detours along Trinity Road.
We must erect temporary traffic signals beneath the bridge so that we can work on one side at a time during the day in a safe manner.
Wandsworth Council and TfL will not allow any non-emergency roadwork on the diversion routes in order to improve traffic flows through the area.
Throughout the construction, a single walkway will be accessible to pedestrians, with crossings at either end. To provide safe passage through the underpass, a covered walkway will be installed.
Overnight, marshals will be present to offer security and support in the center of the underpass as well as on either side. Cyclists will be asked to walk through and dismount.
Jenny Yates, cabinet member for Transport said:
“We understand there will be short-term disruption, but we’re committed to keeping traffic flowing and pedestrians safe. We’re working closely with Network Rail and TfL, and our engagement officers are visiting local businesses to discuss access needs.”
What features will make Falcon Road bridge a community landmark during 2025?
The bridge will have responsive and artistic lighting installations that enhance visibility and safety while celebrating local cultural events. The lighting scheme is adaptable for different occasions such as Diwali and St. Patrick’s Day, creating a vibrant atmosphere day and night.
Pollinator-friendly plants and accessible micro-gardens will be introduced to improve air quality, support local biodiversity, and add natural beauty to the space.
The underpass will feature a ‘Memories of Wandsworth’ wayfinding wall co-designed with local residents. This element celebrates local stories and landmarks through dynamic murals and public art, embedding the bridge deeply within Wandsworth’s cultural fabric.