Lochnagar Bridge

The River Lea, historically an important north-south trade corridor, now acts as a natural east-west obstacle for existing communities and planned new residents, with no river crossings for approximately 2km. The new Lochnagar Bridge will provide a critical link in a rapidly transforming part of the capital, delivering broad social and economic benefits for the area and the wider city. The inclusive design will improve pedestrian and cyclist connectivity for all levels of mobility.

The 63m-span bridge is a steel bowstring arch with a permanent 33m-wide, 3m-high navigable channel for smaller boats to pass beneath. The western end of the bridge can be raised using hydraulic jacks to allow larger vessels to pass. This design decision results in a lower-height crossing than a typical fixed bridge, providing greater accessibility and a higher quality public realm. The deck includes an integrated bench, encouraging people to linger and enjoy the Cody Wilds and the meandering river course.

The arch form of the bridge, combined with the arrangement of hangers and parapet posts, is a visual reference to the major ship-building industry in the area in the 19th and early 20th centuries. As an homage to the rich history of calico printworks on the site, a distinctive orange hue has been chosen for the steelwork, referencing the madder dye used in the printing process.