The project is part of the Council’s ongoing programme to maintain and improve local infrastructure, with the goal of reopening this important pedestrian and cycling route by summer 2025.
Richmond Council has announced that major repair works have begun on the Thames towpath between Richmond Lock and Kew Gardens car park (Ferry Lane), following the closure of the route due to significant structural damage. The project is part of the Council’s ongoing programme to maintain and improve local infrastructure, with the goal of reopening this important pedestrian and cycling route by summer 2025.
The towpath has been closed since 19 October 2024, when a section of the pathway collapsed, posing risks to both users and the surrounding environment. In response to the incident, the Council took immediate action, including closing the affected section, setting up a signed diversion, and removing fallen vegetation. To prevent further damage from the river’s tidal flow, additional scour protection was also installed to safeguard the path during repairs.
“This towpath is a cherished route for our community’s leisure and travel. Despite challenges, the Council and partners have worked hard to stay on track, and we’re now making great progress.”
Alexander Ehmann, Chair of Transport and Air Quality panel
Given the complexity of the site, Richmond Council engaged a specialist marine design team to assess the damage and create a comprehensive plan for the repair works. Detailed site investigations and surveys were conducted to ensure that the repairs would be both effective and long-lasting. The aim is not just to restore the towpath to its previous condition, but to also improve the route’s safety and ecological impact.
The Council has worked closely with a range of key partners to secure the necessary permissions and approvals for the project. These include the Port of London Authority, Environment Agency, The Crown Estate, Syon House, Kew Gardens, the London Borough of Hounslow, and the Royal Mid-Surrey Golf Course. This collaboration has been essential in facilitating a smooth and timely commencement of the repairs, ensuring that all environmental, safety, and regulatory requirements are met.
Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Chair of the Transport and Air Quality Committee, spoke about the significance of the repair works and the importance of the towpath to the local community. “This stretch of towpath is a valued route for many in our community, both for leisure and for active travel. We know its closure has been frustrating for many residents and visitors, and we’re pleased that permanent repair works are now underway and progressing as scheduled. Large engineering projects like this can sometimes face unavoidable delays, but in this case, the Council and partners have worked incredibly hard to keep things on track. We said we’d aim to be on site and underway by April — and here we are, on site and getting the work done.”
The repair works are set to continue through the year, with an expected completion date of summer 2025. While the main focus is on reinstating the collapsed section of the towpath, the Council is also taking the opportunity to incorporate additional ecological improvements, such as enhancing biodiversity and ensuring that the route remains safe and accessible for all users. These improvements are in line with the Council’s broader commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
In addition to the immediate repairs, Richmond Council has long-term plans for the maintenance and enhancement of the towpath across the entire borough. In June 2024, following a competitive tender process, the Council appointed consultants to develop a comprehensive Towpath Improvement and Management Plan for Richmond upon Thames. This plan will guide future works on the towpath, ensuring that it remains a safe, attractive, and environmentally sustainable route for local residents and visitors alike.
The towpath between Richmond and Kew is a vital part of the borough’s network of walking and cycling routes. It is regularly used by those seeking a scenic and accessible way to enjoy the riverfront, whether for commuting, exercising, or simply taking in the beautiful surroundings. The repair works are seen as a crucial step in restoring this popular route and improving access to the stunning Thames landscape.
While the closure has been a setback for many, the ongoing repair works signal a positive development for the local community. With a completion date in sight, residents and visitors alike can look forward to once again enjoying the towpath between Richmond and Kew, whether for recreation or active travel.
Richmond Council remains committed to ensuring the safety, accessibility, and sustainability of local infrastructure, and the successful completion of this project will be another step toward maintaining the borough’s high-quality public spaces for future generations.
