Richmond's MP has spoken out in a Westminster debate to highlight the impact of the Hammersmith Bridge closure on residents.

While addressing Kelly Tolhurst, the Parliamentary under-secretary of state for transport, Sarah Olney highlighted the ongoing repair works as "a matter of the utmost importance in Richmond Park".

The Richmond Park MP said: “While we are considering Government funding to repair Hammersmith Bridge, I urge the Minister to consider the difficulties that the bridge closure is causing my constituents in Barnes and further afield.

"Residents are unable to get to hospital appointments and face much longer journeys to work.

"Should the Minister come to Barnes, East Sheen and Mortlake, she would see the appalling congestion being caused.

"Local Businesses tell me that they are suffering reduced takings as a result of the bridge closure."

The MP also said that Transport for London (TfL) had reported that around 9,000 daily journeys in and out of Barnes have dispersed as a result of the bridge closure.

She also said that she will continue to collaborate with other MPs like Andy Slaughter - the Labour MP for Hammersmith & Fulham Council, who is also the MP that secured the debate and, other MPs whose constituents have been affected by the bridge's closure.

This includes Putney MP Fleur Anderson and Brentford & Isleworth MP Ruth Cadbury.

MP Sarah Olney also plans on working closely with Heidi Alexander - TfL's Deputy Mayor of London for Transport as well as, both leaders of Richmond and Hammersmith & Fulham Councils.