In addition to the Supreme Award, the Infinity Footbridge was also presented with the Award for Pedestrian Bridges. Chosen by the judges from all of the outstanding projects awarded on the night, the Supreme Award is intended to recognise and celebrate the finest example of structural engineering from the 2009 entries.
The Infinity Footbridge is formed of two steel arches that flow into one another, so that they span 60m from the south bank to the central pier and a further 120m to the north bank of the river.
Such is the length of the north span makes the Infinity Footbridge one of the longest footbridges in the UK.
The panel’s judges commented the project was “a bold and daring design which demonstrates what can be done with artistic flair, technical excellence, complex analysis and excellent engineering teamwork.
This bridge will be one of those iconic designs to be talked about for years.”
Over 300 guests attended the Structural Awards 2009, which took place on Friday 9 October in the stunning setting of The Natural History Museum in London.
Organised annually by Institution of Structural Engineers, the awards aim to recognise excellence in structural design and showcase projects that lead the industry’s development.
Reflecting the truly international scope of the event, projects from across Europe, North America, Canada, Africa and Asia received awards in twelve different categories including: Richmond Olympic Oval Roof in Canada, Mapungubwe National Park Interpretive Centre, South Africa and Te Puni Village, New Zealand alongside some of the UK’s biggest projects this year including The Darwin Centre at the Natural History Museum and the Serpentine Gallery Summer Pavilion in London.
Graham Owens, President of the Institution remarked: “The high standard of entries gave the judges a tough task in arriving at the shortlist.
The awards’ mix of categories ensures that excellence in structural engineering will get the recognition it deserves, regardless of the scale or cost.”
All projects recognised at the Structural Awards are inspirational structures demonstrating the exceptional vision and structural engineering skills being practised worldwide.
These designs show the true value that can be delivered by structural engineers and serve as a shining example of achievement that will inspire for years to come.
For further information on the winning and commended projects, and to download copies of the Structural Awards brochure please visit www.structuralawards.org.