Forum Topic

“ The closure of Hammersmith Bridge has significantly impacted residents of Barnes, leading to increased travel times and disruptions to daily life, particularly for those relying on public transport and access to amenities in Hammersmith. Residents report feeling isolated and frustrated with the lack of progress on repairs and the ongoing inconvenience. Here's a more detailed look at the impact:Increased Travel Times and Congestion:Vehicles are forced to divert via Putney or Chiswick bridges, leading to increased congestion and longer journeys.Public transport routes on both sides of the river have been diverted, impacting bus services and access to the London Underground in Hammersmith.Journeys from Barnes to Hammersmith, which were once quick, can now take over an hour. Impact on Businesses:Businesses in Barnes have reported a decline in trade due to reduced foot traffic and difficulty for customers to access their shops.Some businesses, particularly those reliant on passing traffic, have seen a significant drop in revenue.Local newsagents have reported a substantial decrease in Oyster card top-ups, a key source of income. Impact on Individuals:Residents, especially those who are elderly or disabled, are facing difficulties accessing healthcare appointments and other essential services. The bridge's closure has also impacted residents' mental health, with some reporting feelings of isolation and frustration according to the Evening Standard. A wheelchair user described the bridge's closure as isolating, cutting him off from the rest of London. Frustration with Lack of Progress:Residents express frustration with the lack of progress on repairs and the perceived lack of urgency from authorities. There is a sense that London is struggling to manage its infrastructure, and the ongoing closure is damaging to the city's reputation. Some residents feel that the closure has negatively impacted their quality of life and sense of community. ”

Steve Taylor ● 3d

There is no disjoint Jeremy.Your are quite right, I simply don't accept the verbal reports as credible evidence. They are hearsay, anecdotes.  The "sources" are unamed people, no information about their roles and responsibilities. There are no documents supporting them. In the case of Andrew O'Sullivan, he made up a claim about the information in the Furgo report that simply wasn't correct.It is somewhat laughable that you think anyone would do this..."Dear Conway,Someone on an internet forum says he talked to someone from Conway who said Hammersmith Bridge was ok.  I don't know the person on the internet forum, when he talked to the Conway person, where he talked to the Conway person, who the Conway person was,  what is responsibilities were and what question he was asked.  Can you confirm what he said was correct." You appear to think that it is my responsibility to disprove the hearsay and wishful thinking of others.  It really isn't.  I am perfectly happy to simply wait, then when information is produced from credible sources, I can read it.  It makes life very easy, unlike the mental contortions of assumptions and suppositions you are indulging in.If you had read the minutes of the Hammersmith Bridge Task Force from January. you would have seen it says 'members “requested clarification on the current traffic levels around Hammersmith Bridge and the surrounding areas” to help them reach a decision'.Unlike you, I am not going to indulge in speculation or assumptions about what that report will say, or ask people wearing a Conway hard hat and  hi-vis  what they think.

Michael Robinson ● 4d