The design of this elegant bridge neatly combines a shallow arch in one span with an under-slung catenary in the other, creating a smooth and sinuous curve in elevation. The engineers have used thin flat plate hangers in place of conventional rods or cables to stabilise the slender shallow steel arch. This required the application of advanced analytical techniques to verify the design which has been carried out according to the Eurocodes.
The design concept took account of the engineer’s preferred construction method to erect each half as a complete prefabricated span and has been beautifully detailed.
"This delightful, slender and elegant bridge responds well to its context and incorporates innovative engineering solutions. An excellent example of close collaboration between engineer and architect, the bridge is very finely detailed and a delight from beginning to end. The judges were also impressed by the economy of the scheme which demonstrates how good bridge design can be realised at low cost, giving excellent value for money."