Richmond to Kew towpath works

The Thames Towpath from Richmond Lock to Kew Gardens car park on Ferry Lane is now open following the repair works after the collapse of a section on 19 October 2024.

Read more about the opening event.

There were some delays due to challenging access and ground conditions impacting the installation of sheet piling equipment, crucial to reinforcing the riverbank.

Watch Councillor Alexander Ehmann provide an update in August.

Timeline of works

We carried out investigations to create a detailed design for permanent works for when we could eventually reopen this section of the towpath.

We implemented some emergency temporary works to reduce further damage to the towpath.

Permanent works started on 14 April 2025 as per our planned programme of works.

Works were completed on 8 November 2025.

Wider towpath improvements

This project focused on the reinstatement of the towpath, but also targeted ecological and safety improvements where possible.

Improvement and maintenance of the whole towpath in Richmond upon Thames is a priority for us, as set out in our corporate plan. Following a competitive tender, consultants were appointed in June 2024 to deliver a strategic Towpath Improvement and Management Plan for the entire borough.

A report on towpath improvement progress was presented to the Transport and Air Quality Committee on 4 November 2024.

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Contact

If you have any questions about these works, email towpath@richmond.gov.uk.