Plans to open up the Thames to private hire were revealed as TfL announced several big transport construction sites had resumed with more restarting in the coming weeks.

All sites will operate with reduced teams, with some sites drafting in an extra site supervisor to police social distancing.

Workers will be further supported at some sites by welfare wardens who will control access to common areas and changing facilities, so they do not become crowded.

Work resumes on key TfL sites but with reduced workforces

London’s transport body is also urging all construction workers to walk and cycle to sites wherever possible in the capital.

“TfL is investigating options to allow the construction sector to privately hire riverboats and provide transport for workers at construction sites accessible from the river,” said a spokesman.

“As work resumes, TfL will assess what effect the new ways of working will have on delivery schedules for the individual projects, subject to longer-term funding being received.

“Opportunities to restart work on other projects continue to be reviewed across TfL’s capital delivery programme and further updates will follow as soon as they are available.”

TfL has worked closely with its contractors and supply chain to introduce changes to ensure all sites operate safely

During the next few weeks, site preparation to accommodate social distancing and construction work will safely begin in a phased way on projects vital to supporting jobs and homes, or providing essential transport infrastructure, across the capital.

These include major capacity improvements and extensions for Tube and rail, such as the Northern Line Extension to Battersea, the Bank Station Capacity Upgrade and the extension of London Overground to Barking Riverside.

The transformation of Old Street Roundabout, new cycleways, safety improvements to key road junctions and new walking and cycling infrastructure to support social distancing will also get underway.