Drivers cross the Albert Bridge at last

The Albert Bridge finally reopened to drivers today after nearly two years of traffic mayhem and disruption to local businesses.

It marks the completion of a£7.2 million restoration of the Victorian bridge, following several delays.

Two dogs named Prince and Albert from Battersea Dogs Home were walked across to officially open the Thames crossing, before the first vehicles drove from Chelsea to Battersea.

It had been feared the closure, which began in February last year, could last until after the Olympics. The extensive strengthening and refurbishment work was delayed several times as damage was more severe than originally realised. Despite the concerns, the Grade II-listed structure has been fully restored and has maintained all its original features.

Drivers told of their relief that the bridge was open to the public at last.

Graham Stewart, 60, head butcher at Butcher and Grill on the south side of the bridge, said: "I can't wait to use the bridge to get home from work tonight. "I have been forced to use the Battersea Bridge for the last two years which can take more than half an hour but now that the Albert Bridge is open, it will only take a few minutes. It is great to have a bit of history back in use."

He added: "It has been extremely difficult for businesses since the closure as there has been no passing trade."

Deputy council leader and cabinet member for transport Nick Paget-Brown said: "The opening of this iconic landmark is a big day for London. Six million road users a year will once again be free to cross the bridge."

Nalin Patel, 52, director of Food and Wine in Parkgate Road, said he was "very happy" that business can get back to normal, having been forced to lay off two members of staff this year.
"Having traffic pass by we will see people on their way home from work. We are part of a long road that joins the A3 all the way to Guildford so our potential custom is huge," he said.