Westminster Bridge Reopened: What Happened on the bridge?

Westminster Bridge in Central London has been closed in both directions following police activity at an incident early this morning, now reopened. Emergency services have secured the area, including ambulances. Westminster Bridge is a Grade II* listed arch bridge over the river Thames, and is painted 'odd green' to match the House of Commons. The bridge connects Westminster with Lambeth and is one of central London's most used crossings.  

Why was the bridge closed?  

The Metropolitan Police said that the incident is 'mental health' related and there are no injuries reported.  

Emergency Services Response  

London Ambulance Service was dispatched at 1:57 a.m. and sent crews and incident response officers from London's Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) and paramedics into the area. At least another crew remains on standby while the joint response is organised.  

Which services have been affected? 

At least 12 bus routes which typically transit Westminster Bridge are diverted automatically. According to the AA, other than this disruption, traffic is coping well.  

Commuter Reactions

Commuters expressed their frustrations on social media:

"Isn’t it about time something is done about all these people with “mental health?” Care in the community is clearly not working!"

Isn’t it about time something is done about all these people with “mental health?” Care in the community is clearly not working!

— Bristol Bird (@AnnBristolBird) August 18, 2025

When will Westminster Bridge Opens? What We Know So Far

What's the status?

The bridge remains closed this morning due to a 'mental health related incident' that required emergency services to be deployed and remains closed to the public, according to the Metropolitan Police and the London Ambulance Service. There are no injuries reported.

When Did This BEGIN?

• Aug 18, 2025, 1:57 a.m.: London Ambulance Service received the call and sent resources to the scene, including HART teams.
• Around 4:07 a.m.: It was first reported publically that the closure was in the public domain and images came from the traffic scanners.

Is The Bridge OPEN?

Yes, according to there lastest report, the bridge has been reopened

What Can Commuters Do?

• Use Lambeth Bridge or Waterloo Bridge as alternate Thames crossing.
• Expect bus route diversions and minor delays - allow extra travel time.
• Check Transport for London (TfL) updates for latest real-time travel information.