Richmond to Kew towpath works

The Thames towpath between Richmond Lock and Kew Gardens car park on Ferry Lane is still entirely closed. This is following the collapse of a section of the towpath on Saturday 19 October.

We are not the only body with interests and responsibilities in the damaged section. However, we have consciously taken the lead on this very complex project and are convening relevant parties in efforts to deliver solutions as quickly as possible.

While we are still undertaking ground investigations, the collapse is likely to have been caused by a combination of factors including the high river levels and high winds on that day. Since the collapse, our engineers have been working with specialist contractors to investigate this and to explore temporary and permanent solutions.

Watch Councillor Alexander Ehmann provide the latest towpath updates.

Timeline of works

We are carrying out investigations to create a detailed design for permanent works so we can eventually reopen this section of the towpath.

More permanent repair works will start in early 2025, subject to consent being granted.

We will be implementing emergency temporary works in the coming weeks to reduce further damage to the towpath, but we have not been able to identify a viable solution to allow access while permanent repairs are being carried out.

We will share details of the works and timelines once designs have been finalised.

Access and diversions 

The diversions already in place will remain for now, with fencing still in place at either end of the closure.

Residents and visitors are asked not to make any attempt to access the towpath, as it is not safe.

These diversions are in place: 

• For towpath walkers and cyclists, a route is shown on the map on the opposite side of the river, crossing at Richmond Lock 
• For a more direct route to Kew, pedestrians and cyclists can take Kew Road (A307) 
• Diversion signage is in place at Twickenham Bridge and at Ferry Lane 

You can view a map showing the diversions or find out more about the National Trail diversion route.

For safety reasons, there are no plans to allow temporary or partial access along the closed section for recreational use while works are carried out.

We are aware that some people are bypassing signage and barriers in order to have a look at the affected area. It is not safe to do this, and we will be reinforcing the safety measures in place to prevent access.

Wider towpath improvements

This project will focus on the reinstatement of the towpath, but we will also target 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.

Keep updated

Sign up to our mailing list to receive the latest information about these works.

Contact us

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