Council Begins Work to Brighten and Secure Balham Bridge Underpass

Work has begun to transform the rail bridge underpass on Balham High Road into a brighter, safer, and more welcoming route for pedestrians, following feedback from local residents and businesses. The council aims to make the space near Balham station feel less dark and more inviting.

The improvements are being funded through developer contributions, meaning no cost will be passed on to local taxpayers. Key works include cleaning pavements and walls, pigeon-proofing the underside of the bridge, and enhancing architectural lighting to brighten the area and highlight the green tiling along the walls.

To reduce disruption, the works are being carried out overnight and are expected to take two weeks. During this time, sections of the footpath may be closed, with the cycle lane serving as a temporary safe walkway for pedestrians.

Jenny Yates, Cabinet Member for Transport, said:

“Balham is a busy and lively town centre - a great place to live and spend time. Residents told us they want us to spend some of our local improvements funding on changes like this that will make Balham a better place for everyone, so we’re getting on with the job.”

This project is part of a wider first phase of rail bridge upgrades across the borough. Other structures receiving attention include:

• Bedford Hill rail bridge foot tunnels, near the Bedford Pub

• Battersea Park Road rail bridges, near the station

• Tooting Bec Common rail bridge, at Cavendish Road

• Tooting Bec Common rail bridge, near the playground

• East Putney station rail bridges, on Upper Richmond Road

• Swandon Way rail bridge, Wandsworth Town

Image: Wandsworth Council