International Nine Elms bridge competition launched

A new competition to design a new bridge across the River Thames was launched yesterday (Monday December 8th). The international contest will see a bridge constructed in Central London and was officially opened by Wandsworth Council.

Engineers and architects from around the world will be taking part in the competition, which aims to see an innovative and inspiring design for a the new bridge created. The river crossing will link the Pimlico embankment with the Nine Elms area.

A high profile panel has been put together to judge the entries, this will include architect Graham Stirk, Chartered associate of Building Engineers (CABE) chair Pam Alexander, engineer Henry Bardsley and Wandsworth Council leader Ravi Govindia.

The competition will aim to engage the local communities with a number of public exhibitions on both sides of the river.

The bridge is part of the £1 billion investment in infrastructure that is aimed at turning the Nine Elms regeneration area into a well-connected Zone One destination. The package will also include two new Northern Line Tube stops, two riverbus piers, improvements to rail stations and a network of parks, footpaths and cycle lanes.

A feasibility study completed in 2013 by Transport for London (TFL) revealed there is a strong case for the bridge to be constructed at Nine Elms. The study suggested it would provide cyclists and pedestrians with a car-free alternative to the Vauxhall or Chelsea bridges.

Around £26 million has been promised to the Nine Elms development and the winning bridge design will be used to match funding. 

When a winning design has been selected, it will go through the planning process before construction work can begin.

Mr Govindia said: “This is a competition to find a team of brilliant engineers and architects to design a beautiful bridge spanning the Thames.

“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. The transport case is strong and this will be a valuable and sustainable addition to London’s transport infrastructure."

Published 9th December, 2014

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