Hammersmith and Fulham Council is considering a major transformation of the Hammersmith Flyover, proposing to demolish the 1960s structure and replace it with a tunnel, often referred to as a "flyunder." This ambitious plan, outlined in the council’s Local Plan and recent draft documents, aims to reconnect communities severed by the flyover, improve urban aesthetics, and facilitate substantial development in the area. The council anticipates that the proposal will be submitted for public consultation following upcoming cabinet approval, with a target for adoption of the plan by November 2027.

The flyover, which first opened in 1961, was originally constructed to ease traffic congestion; however, it has since been widely criticised for its detrimental impact on Hammersmith’s urban fabric. It has been described as an "eyesore and physical barrier," cutting off the town centre from the River Thames, disrupting the historic Victorian street layout, and contributing to significant noise and pollution challenges. Reflecting this perspective, Councillor Nicholas Botterill has previously labelled the flyover a "hangover from another era," advocating for its removal to dramatically improve the quality of life for residents. The proposed tunnel is intended to reduce through traffic, improve pedestrian and cyclist safety—especially in links to the riverside—and open up land currently occupied by the elevated road for new development.

The council's vision is far-reaching. The project forms part of a 15-year council strategy to revitalise Hammersmith Town Centre, including plans to construct nearly 3,000 new homes and transform parts of the area with innovative projects such as a "Hammersmith High-line," inspired by New York’s elevated park, to invigorate public spaces. The proposal, which is estimated to cost around £811 million, is dependent on collaborative efforts with Transport for London (TfL) and the Greater London Authority (GLA). The council is examining funding mechanisms that include monetising the land freed up by removing the flyover, effectively leveraging urban regeneration to finance the substantial infrastructure investment.

Despite these plans, Transport for London currently has no formal intention to replace the flyover. A TfL spokesperson confirmed the organisation’s openness to discussions, emphasising that local plans represent long-term visions from boroughs rather than approved projects. TfL’s past interventions on the flyover, such as the comprehensive resurfacing and bearing replacements completed in 2015, have aimed to extend the structure’s operational life and enhance safety without committing to a full replacement. The transport authority, however, acknowledges that any future replacement would require funding tied to wider redevelopment.

Earlier studies have highlighted the complexity such an undertaking would entail. A feasibility evaluation conducted in 2013-14 revealed that constructing a tunnel could cause significant traffic disruption, potentially lasting 18 months—which is half of the total construction time. The council must weigh these temporary impacts against the alternative of doing nothing, which would still necessitate ongoing and disruptive flyover maintenance.

Policy documents, such as those governing the A4 corridor redevelopment, underscore objectives beyond mere structural replacement. These policies demand that any new tunnel solution should not impair traffic flow on this vital strategic route and should enhance the safety and quality of pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. The ambition is to deliver social, environmental, and economic benefits, knitting communities back together and fostering sustainable urban growth.

In summary, the proposed removal of the Hammersmith Flyover and its replacement with a tunnel is a cornerstone of Hammersmith and Fulham Council’s strategic urban renewal ambitions. While the project promises to reshape the town centre by improving connectivity, opening land for housing, and cutting pollution, its delivery hinges on extensive stakeholder collaboration, sophisticated funding approaches, and careful management of construction impacts. The next steps in the plan’s approval and public consultation will be critical in shaping the future of this West London landmark.

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Source: Noah Wire Services