The controversial zebra crossing for Richmond Bridge went live this morning.

Workmen completed installation overnight and the first people to use the new crossing - including mums with prams and dog walkers took advantage.

There have been concerns the new crossing will cause jams on the key route between Richmond and Twickenham.

Local councillors insist the new crossing is a 'victory' for residents, particularly people living in East Twickenham.

It will allow people to cross safely, rather than playing a game of cat and mouse with vehicles to get across the busy road. However, will also create a new 'stop-start' hurdle to vehicles and cyclists using the route.

The scheme has been controversial with complaints from the Richmond Society that it was not needed or wanted.

The group, which campaigns to protect local heritage, also questioned the appearance of the crossing, with its associated beacons, on the historic bridge.

It favoured improvements to the crossing point at the mini-roundabout at the top of Bridge Street, close to the Odeon cinema.

The Council said the new crossing is one of a number of improvements 'centred around making Richmond Town Centre safer, easier and more enjoyable for residents, visitors and businesses'.

The Richmond Society told Nub News: "We are opposed to a zebra crossing at this location, principally because it is too far away from where most pedestrians are crossing Bridge Street.

"During the consultation last year, the Society commented that the Council would be better off spending the money improving the informal crossings at the roundabout where it is desperately needed for pedestrian safety and convenience."

Some concerns have been raised that the crossing will make life difficult for cyclists heading in towards Richmond. This is because they will have to stop and start on an uphill section to let people cross.

However, the scheme has won support from the Richmond Cycling Campaign, which said pedestrian safety should be given priority.

The campaign convenor, Tim Lennon, said: "We're all about making it easier and nicer for people to walk around as well as cycle."

Cllr Alexander Ehmann, chairman of the Council's Transport Committee, insisted the new crossing should be celebrated.

He said: "A genuine sense of achievement today. This labour of love finally comes to be. Richmond Bridge finally has a a decent crossing at its Richmond end.

"To the vocal minority who opposed it, I hope you'll begin to see the benefit now it's there. To everyone else - enjoy!"