Richmond Council say work will begin on repairing Thames towpath in “early 2025”

Image: Cllr Alexander Ehmann speaking at the side of the breached section of the Thames Path

Path should reopen by summer 2025, Richmond Council say

Richmond Council has unveiled its timetable for repairs to the collapsed section of the Thames Path in Kew, with work expected to begin early in 2025.

The popular walking and cycling route remains closed between Richmond Lock and Kew Gardens following the structural failure on 19 October. The tow path collapsed in stormy weather which combined high river levels and strong winds.

The Council, which is leading the project, has announced emergency works will commence in the coming weeks to prevent further damage. The permanent repair phase, expected to cost millions of pounds, will follow early next year, with the aim of reopening the path by summer 2025.

Lib Dem councillor Alexander Ehmann, chair of the Transport and Air Quality Committee, described the repairs as “incredibly complex” but reassured residents that the Council is prioritising the reinstatement of this “important asset.” He said:

“Our immediate priority was to secure the site. Now our focus is on implementing permanent repairs to ensure this much-loved route is restored for the community.”

While designs for the permanent solution are being finalised, Cllr Ehmann stressed that the area remains unsafe, urging residents and visitors to respect the fencing and diversion signage. Despite the closures, some individuals have bypassed barriers to access the site, prompting the Council to enhance safety measures.

Image: The collapsed section of the Thames Path in October 2024

Council plans to make towpath more “resilient” than before

The Council says it is leveraging this project to explore broader ecological and safety improvements along the towpath. A strategic Towpath Improvement and Management Plan, commissioned in June 2024, is addressing maintenance and upgrades across the entire borough.

Councillor Ehmann added:

“With climate change presenting increasing challenges, this project ensures residents and visitors can enjoy a safe, resilient towpath for years to come.”

The Council says it will give further updates, including detailed timelines and designs, as the project progresses.

Walkers and cyclists currently have to use alternative routes,  either using teh towpath on the opposite side of the river, accessible via Richmond Lock, or the more direct option via Kew Road (A307).

Signage has been placed at Twickenham Bridge and Ferry Lane, and maps of the diversions are available on the Council’s website. For safety reasons, temporary or partial access to the damaged section will not be permitted during the repair process.