New pedestrian bridge planned for London

A new pedestrian bridge is planned for central London, to connect Battersea Power Station and the Nine Elms district on the south bank of the Thames to Pimlico on the north.

The site for the planned new bridge

The plan comes shortly after the Heatherwick Studio-designed Garden Bridge, which will span the Thames further east, was approved by Westminster Council. It is expected to open in 2018.
The Nine Elms to Pimlico bridge is planned by Wandsworth Council as a pedestrian and cycling bridge and is part of the £1 billion to transform the Nine Elms “regeneration area”. So far £26 million has been earmarked for the bridge, and Wandsworth says it is seeking further funding.
An international competition has been launched for architects and engineers to work on the project. Wandsworth Council says the competition will include public exhibitions and engagement with local communities on both sides of the river. 

Heatherwick Studio’s Garden Bridge proposal

Ravi Govindia, leader of Wandsworth Council and co-chair of the Nine Elms Vauxhall Partnership, says: “This bridge has the potential to become an inspiring landmark, heralding the changes that are taking place south of the river and making vital connections to the north shore.
“This bridge needs to be designed to the highest quality standards; it must be inspiring, elegant and functional. The conundrum of creating a bridge that can be readily used by cyclists and pedestrians alike, that also provides adequate headroom for river traffic, is at the heart of the challenge. “
To find out more about the project and how to enter visit www.nepbridgecompetition.co.uk.

Tue, 9 Dec 2014 | By Angus Montgomery