The complex flyover was forced to close due to water damage that has corroded and weakened the cables that give the bridge its strength.
It had been thought that it would be up to ten years before any major work was required on the flyover, however recent maintenance checks showed work would be required much earlier than anticipated.
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A detailed investigation was launched immediately and a team of 80 Transport for London (TfL) engineers, contractors, and leading structural engineering experts have been working nonstop on site and within the structure throughout the Christmas and New Year period.
The engineers have inserted cameras into the structure of the flyover at 100 different locations to assess key sections of the cables it contains.
They told the Mayor that investigations of the extent of the damage to those cables must continue for a further week before engineers will be in a position to decide whether it is strong enough to allow its reopening even to light traffic.
However they confirmed that preparatory work can begin ahead of the installation of new cables within the structure that will strengthen the flyover and allow it to take full vehicle loading again.
They also confirmed that the flyover will be repaired and fully available to traffic before the London 2012 Games.
(CD/GK)
