The bridge structure is a steel Fink truss spanning 130m onto a pair of trestles at each end. The six tapering conical masts are of varying length and are linked by cables to tie down points. At each end a further cable carries tension forces to ground via a distinctive ‘bowsprit’. The very slender aerodynamic profile is achieved by extending the box section deck upwards into the pedestrian zone as required to meet the loads. These extensions form distinctive steel mounds or ‘keels’ which are concealed by the inclined balustrading along both edges of the bridge. The upper bridge deck, 15m above water level, provides a spectacular route for pedestrians and is accessed at either end by stairs and panoramic lifts.
The materials are steel for all structural elements and perforated stainless steel cladding to the stairs, lifts and balustrading. Hardwood is used for the decking and handrails and perforated aluminium extrusions are fitted to the stair treads.
This open bridge was designed to feature a gondola slung beneath, supported on cables hung from a cable driven carriage moving on a rail. The upper bridge deck affords spectacular views of the Millennium Dome, Canary Wharf and the leisure activities in the dock itself.
