Drivers of vehicles weighing more than three tonnes are being warned a weight restriction is now being enforced on Albert Bridge in West London, with fines for goods vehicles that exceed it.

The current restriction, which has been in place since 2012, has been managed previously using width restriction posts to deter overweight vehicles entering the bridge.

With Hammersmith Bridge still out of action, Hammersmith and Fulham Council have announced penalty charge notices will be issued from Thursday (11 January) with drivers of goods vehicles identified as over three tonnes receiving a fixed penalty notice of £130, reduced to £65 if paid within 14 days.

The Council only has powers to enforce weight limits against goods vehicles, but is encouraging everyone with vehicle heavier than three tonnes to use another route wherever possible to protect the bridge.

Cllr Cem Kemahli, lead member for planning and public realm, said: “Hammersmith Bridge has been closed to motor traffic for five years. We don’t want to be in the same position here in Kensington and Chelsea which is why we are starting to enforce the weight restriction on Albert Bridge.

“The bridge is structurally sound and perfectly safe, but it is a listed structure and an important river crossing so we need to make sure we protect both the surface and the structure for the long term.”

Cameras have been installed at the north side of the bridge to monitor the traffic.

(Picture – Yay Images)