An official design for a pedestrian and cycle bridge linking Rotherhithe to Canary Wharf is expected by the end of the year.
Transport for London revealed they were pushing ahead with plans for the bridge during a meeting with ward councillors last Wednesday.
And Mayor of London Sadiq Khan confirmed he wanted the bridge built “as soon as possible” during Mayor’s Question Time last week, saying “2020/2021 is the time schedule we are talking about”.
After being pressed for more details about the schedule and funding for the bridge by London Assembly member Caroline Pidgeon, Mr Khan said he hoped “third parties” in the area would contribute towards the project.
“TfL anticipates that a public procurement process for a design and build partner will start in the autumn,” he added.
“I’m hoping that consultation on the preferred option takes place in 2018 before detailed plans are drawn up to allow an application to be made.”
Surrey Docks Liberal Democrat ward councillor Dan Whitehead, who met with TfL, said a design is expected by the end of the year, which could be available for public consultation by January/February.
“Building a bridge is what we [the Liberal Democrats] have been pushing for for many years so it’s really positive that TfL aren’t just considering it anymore, it’s out there as a project,” he told the News.
“Everything from the meeting suggests that the developer and TfL are taking it seriously.
“A lot of consideration has to go into the height of the bridge because being on that part of the river there’s logistics about the tall ships going through so there has to be a balance.”
“The case for the Rotherhithe to Canary Wharf pedestrian and cycle bridge is stronger than ever,” Caroline Pidgeon added.
“It will play a key role in supporting the new housing and employment that is growing on both sides of the Thames, as well as helping to reduce pressure on the Jubilee Line, especially at Canada Water. This is one project that really must be delivered on time.”
Bermondsey and Old Southwark MP Neil Coyle also said he had been pushing for the bridge to be delivered as soon as possible and that he was “delighted the Mayor is fast tracking the project”.
In addition to the bridge, the Mayor of London also said he was “keen” to see the cycle hire scheme extended to places like Rotherhithe.
For the scheme to be expanded to Bermondsey and Rotherhithe, Southwark Council would have tocontribute about £3-4million in capital costs.
A council spokesperson said around £20,000 had been raised so far through sections 106 funds.