London's Albert Bridge closes to traffic as 'precaution'

Albert Bridge in west London has been closed to traffic as "a precautionary measure" following an inspection.

Kensington and Chelsea Council said concerns had been raised during routine maintenance of the 150-year-old crossing, which connects Battersea to Chelsea.

Engineers are analysing findings from the planned inspection, with the bridge being shut to vehicles while they "identify appropriate actions", the council said.

The route remains open to pedestrians, with traffic being diverted via Chelsea Bridge and Battersea Bridge.

Councillor Johnny Thalassites, the council's lead member for environment and planning, said the structure "requires constant care and attention".

"The safety of the bridge's users is our absolute priority, so we have taken the precautionary step of closing the bridge to vehicles to allow our expert teams to carry out further investigations," he said, adding that work was progressing "at pace".

Maria, who owns a florists off King's Road, said the bridge closure was causing delivery delays for her business.

She said drivers were "working over their hours" as they used alternative routes, adding that the closure, which began on Monday afternoon, was impacting many businesses in the area.

Opened in 1873, Albert Bridge is a Grade II listed structure and one of only two London bridges never to have been replaced, along with Tower Bridge.