Motorists and commuters in South London are set to face significant disruption for the next 18 months as a major infrastructure upgrade gets underway.
Beginning later this month, essential works will commence between Pump House Lane and the Vauxhall Gyratory on Nine Elms Lane as part of a broader initiative aimed at improving the transport environment in the area.
Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that the construction will form part of a larger scheme designed to enhance the stretch of Nine Elms Lane and Battersea Park Road.
These improvements include upgraded bus stops and dedicated infrastructure for walking and cycling. The project will also benefit users of the Northern Line Extension at Battersea Power Station, helping to create a safer and more accessible environment for all.
According to TfL, works will begin on 28 April, taking place Monday to Saturday from 8pm to 6pm. A limited number of operations will also occur on Sundays and during overnight hours, particularly for activities such as traffic signal upgrades and road resurfacing. The entire project is expected to conclude by autumn 2026.
This scheme is among several improvement efforts currently underway across London’s transport network. TfL is also focusing on critical maintenance of bridges and structures, supported by a long-term contract that runs until 2026—details of which can be found in TfL’s bridges and structures maintenance contract update.
Traffic Changes and Disruption Plans
Throughout the construction period, temporary traffic management measures will be enforced around the clock, seven days a week. These will include:
- Reduction of Nine Elms Lane to one lane in each direction
- Temporary bans on right turns in and out of all sides and access roads during closures
- A prohibited left turn from Wandsworth Road into Nine Elms Lane
- Southbound-only access on Cringle Street between Kirtling Street and Battersea Park Road
While bus stops will remain operational, they will be relocated to nearby temporary sites to maintain accessibility. TfL has acknowledged that some delays are expected during this period but emphasised efforts are being made to minimise inconvenience.
“These works to transform Nine Elms Lane and Battersea Park Road are a significant step in the regeneration of the area and will improve accessibility and safety for the thousands of people already cycling in this busy location, as well as those who want to walk and cycle more, but don’t feel safe,” said Julie Lewington, Head of Projects & Programmes at TfL.
She added: “We’d like to thank local residents for their patience while these works are taking place. Roads in the surrounding area are expected to be busier than usual so please plan ahead and check before you travel.”
Once the works are complete, the area will benefit from 1.6km of continuous cycle lanes in both directions, improved pedestrian crossings, and widened footpaths. New signal-controlled junctions and modernised bus shelters will enhance safety and convenience for commuters.
To further promote active travel, additional cycle stands and benches will be installed. A new drainage system will also be introduced to improve climate resilience, and the road and pavements will be fully resurfaced. As part of a green initiative, 24 trees will be planted along the corridor.
This long-anticipated development follows a public consultation held in 2017 and ongoing collaboration with local residents, businesses, and the Wandsworth Council. The first phase of the scheme, between Duchess Bridge and Sleaford Street, was successfully completed in August 2021.
“We are committed to ensuring the capital’s transport network is safe and reliable for the next generation of Londoners,” added Ms Lewington.
