Transport for London (TfL) has issued an apology for the continued delays in reopening the Gallows Corner flyover in Romford, as local politicians push for completion within months. The project, which began in March 2024, was originally scheduled to finish by September 2024 but has been repeatedly delayed due to complex ground conditions and unforeseen utility works.
Project Delays and Utility Issues
The flyover and roundabout upgrade at Gallows Corner aims to improve journey times and road safety. However, TfL missed an April deadline after Essex & Suffolk Water (ESW) identified issues with water pipes. TfL now expects ESW to complete its works and hand back the site by the end of August. Following a recent meeting, Havering Council's new leader, Keith Prince, stated he is challenging TfL to reopen the flyover and roundabout by October, citing a more realistic timeline given potential further delays.
TfL's Response and Apology
A TfL spokesperson said: “We are working hard to complete the project as soon as possible, while ensuring infrastructure is safe and ready to enter service. Complex work remains, but Essex & Suffolk Water currently expects to complete its works and hand the site back to us by the end of August. Following this, we will need to complete final reinstatement and resurfacing works in the area where work has been taking place before we can fully reopen the road network. We know how deeply frustrating this situation continues to be for local residents, businesses and road users and we are very sorry for the ongoing disruption. We remain focused on completing the remaining work safely and as quickly as possible, while protecting vital water supplies.”
Progress and Community Frustration
All major TfL groundworks have been completed, and work is progressing on repairing the troublesome water pipe. Cllr Prince noted that TfL expects completion by September, but he doubts this due to the possibility of further delays and considers October more realistic. The previous council administration branded the continued delays a “farce,” and over 1,900 residents signed a petition demanding compensation. They stated they had “no longer had confidence in TfL’s assurances” and had reached a “breaking point,” requesting a partial council tax refund for each month beginning September 2025.
