Authorities ruled out measures to install bollards to protect pedestrians on London Bridge just 24 HOURS before terror attack

AUTHORITIES ruled out measures to install barriers on London Bridge just 24 hours before three terrorists went on a rampage and drove a van at crowds of people.

The City of London Corporation said there were “no current plans” to install bollards on the historic structure on Friday – ahead of the attack which left six dead and 48 injured.

The local authority and London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s office had been contacted last week after concerns were raised about the vulnerability of those walking across London Bridge.

On the east side of the bridge, the pavement is at least 10ft wide and there is only a small kerb to stop drivers mounting it and crashing into those walking across.

At least one of the dead from last night’s attack is thought to have been killed by the speeding vehicle, said to be a branded B&Q or Hertz car.

The authority was asked in an email on Wednesday: “I was wondering whether there are any plans afoot to put bollards on the pavement on London Bridge?

“The pavement is extremely wide there and following the Westminster attack, it does seem to be a weak spot.”

Sadiq Khan’s office failed to reply, but a City of London Corporation spokesman replied: “There are currently no plans for the provision of barriers or bollards to be deployed at London Bridge.”

Concerns have been raised about several open areas of London close to main roads where pedestrians are “sitting ducks”.

On March 22, a similar attack took place at the Palace of Westminster, with 52-year-old terrorist Khalid Masood driving his 4X4 car at people walking on the south side of Westminster Bridge and Bridge Street, killing four.

Following the massacre, anti-terror barriers were installed outside Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.

But many areas in London remain vulnerable.

Many have pointed out that vulnerability on social media.

Tom Buckley tweeted: “Terrible scenes at London Bridge. However security there has been shocking since Westminster attack. No bollards, nothing. Joke. #sittingduck”

Paul Sperry said: “Unbelievable. The London Bridge vehicular jihadist was able to build speeds like Westminster jihadist BECAUSE STILL NO BOLLARDS ON SIDEWALKS.”

Matthew Miers added: “Why hasn’t anyone thought of putting massive bollards on London Bridge to stop people driving across the bridge aiming for people!”

Others called on Sadiq Khan to act.

Jake Hook Tweeted: “Why haven’t anti ramming bollards been installed on roads around London @sadiqkhan we need action not just words #londonbridge.”

Did you see the London Bridge terror attack, or know anyone involved? Please contact The Sun newsdesk on 020 7782 4100, text 07423720250 or email exclusive@the-sun.co.uk