Brooks Lane Footbridge Closed Without Warning
Safety inspection reveals serious structural faults
Residents were surprised to find the footbridge closed on Sunday
August 13, 2025
The Brooks Lane footbridge which crosses the rail line near Strand on the Green Schools was closed without notice this Sunday (10 August). This was done after Network Rail engineers discovered serious structural faults during a routine inspection. The closure has disrupted pedestrian access across the railway line, prompting concern among residents and local councillors.
Chiswick Riverside ward councillors Gabriella Giles and Peter Thompson confirmed that the bridge was shut immediately after engineers identified damage to the timber beams supporting the span. Network Rail has stated that the closure was necessary to ensure public safety.
Engineers are expected to return to the site this week to assess the extent of the repairs required. Network Rail plans to carry out the work next week during overnight hours, when trains are not running, to minimise disruption. The bridge is currently scheduled to reopen by Friday 22 August.
A Network Rail Public Affairs Manager said, “On Sunday evening, during a routine safety inspection, engineers identified several structural faults in the timber beams that support the bridge span. Unfortunately, for everyone’s safety, we had to close the footbridge immediately. We are working quickly to ensure the bridge can be reopened as soon as possible.”
The bridge had been earmarked for refurbishment in 2023, but plans were not approved at the pre-planning stage by Hounslow Council. The proposed design was not considered a like-for-like replacement, and some residents had hoped the upgrade would include step-free access.
Cllrs Gabriella Giles and Peter Thompson on the Brooks Lane Footbridge
Cllr Thompson said, “Making the bridge safe is the top priority, but the way this closure has been handled has been far from ideal. Poor communication has caused needless disruption, and Gabriella and I have been contacted by many residents who were completely caught out by the sudden closure. Clear, visible signs in the area are essential so people know in advance and aren’t left turning up at the bridge only to find it shut.”
Cllr Giles added,“I’m pleased Network Rail acted quickly to address the safety risk, but residents deserve clear, timely information when something like this happens. We will continue to press for updates until the bridge is safely reopened.”
The closure of Brooks Lane footbridge comes as another local crossing—over Chiswick Station—remains shut for repairs. That bridge is expected to reopen on 15 September.
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