Flyover with corroded cables reopens to traffic

The Hammersmith flyover was partially reopened today after causing weeks of misery for motorists.

One lane opened in each direction early this morning - but it remains closed to all HGVs and coaches. The 50-year-old flyover, which carries the A4, was shut on December 23 when steel cables that hold the concrete structure together were found to have been corroded by salt water from grit laid during successive winters.

Investigations revealed that some cables had snapped. Transport for London is still advising motorists to avoid the route where possible.

Boris Johnson told Nick Ferrari on LBC radio today: "One lane has been open since five o'clock this morning on the Hammersmith flyover.

"What people want to know is when is this thing going to be fully restored and the best I can say today is that it's going to be a matter of weeks not months. As I said earlier, it will obviously be open fully before the Games." TfL expects the initial repairs, which will focus on strengthening six of the 16 spans, to take about four months.

After the Games, engineers will strengthen the remaining 10 spans. Mr Johnson said he believes this will extend the life of the flyover by up to 15 years.