Thames footbridge opens

The bridges will carry seven million people a year

The first of two new pedestrian bridges over the Thames has been opened.

The new Hungerford pedestrian bridges will improve access between Charing Cross, Waterloo and Embankment.

Together they will carry an estimated seven million people each year.

Due for completion this autumn, the £39.5m bridges will replace the present pedestrian crossing with two 315-metre footbridges linking the Southbank and the West End.

The bridges will improve access to tube stations

The upstream bridge was opened to the public on Monday to allow for the demolition of the old crossing and completion of the downstream bridge.

On completion, the new bridges will be protected by 24-hour security monitoring.

Ken Livingstone said: "Improving access to London on foot is a priority.

"This crossing meets that need and gives Londoners another beautifully-designed bridge to add to a world-renowned collection."