Residents in southwest London are expressing anger over Wandsworth Council’s decision to spend £600,000 on repainting two railway bridges near East Putney Tube station. The upgrade works included “pigeon-proofing” the metalwork. However, locals are unhappy with the new blue and yellow color scheme, likening it to IKEA branding and HSS Hire.

The repainting was completed in March under the previous council administration before the May local elections. Residents are criticizing the new look, with one long-time resident, Emma, stating that the vibrant colors clash with the area’s character, replacing the bridges’ previous muted red paint.

Council officials clarified that the bridges, owned by Network Rail and Transport for London, were repainted based on the local authority’s recommendation. The work was not mandatory but categorized as “capital maintenance.”

George Crivelli, a Conservative ward councillor and cabinet member for children, expressed concerns about the brightness of the new color scheme, noting the lack of consultation with local residents. Although he appreciates the refurbishment, he agrees with the public sentiment that the colors are too bold for the area.

In response to the criticism, a senior transport planner at the council stated that there are no plans to revise the design, citing that the negative feedback was minimal compared to the number of residents and station users.

A Wandsworth Council spokesperson confirmed the total cost of the project at £600,000, with the completion date set in May 2026.