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Civic Trust Awards
Dukes Meadow Footbridge

Dukes Meadow Footbridge

Hounslow, Greater London

Civic Trust Awards Citation

Dukes Meadows Footbridge, nestled beneath the historic Grade II listed Barnes Bridge in Chiswick, not only connects two previously disjointed sections of the Thames Path but also addresses various challenges with an elegant and resilient solution. 

The bridge’s architectural design is a harmonious blend of form and function. The distinct bridge form, responding to complex geometric constraints, results in an elegantly efficient structure that provides an uplifting experience for pedestrians. The slender gull-wing type chords in the bridge trusses not only contribute to its structural integrity but also add an element of fun to the design, making it more than just a utilitarian solution. The materials chosen for construction are not only robust but also visually articulate, ensuring a long lifespan and resistance to damage. 

Commendable attention to sustainability criteria is evident in the reduced embodied carbon through material choices, efficient off-site manufacturing, and logistics for transportation and installation. The bridge is climate resilient and can withstand frequent submergence during extreme flooding events. The main structure is designed to resist hydrodynamic and buoyancy forces and the aluminium decking allows for free drainage. With the client’s unwavering support, vulnerable details were avoided through the specification of stainless steel and aluminium and the adoption of fully integral connections to the substructure at all but one of the piers. Laminated elastomeric bearings are used at the final pier, which is well above the most severe flood level. 

Accessibility is a fundamental aspect of the bridge’s purpose. By resolving a problematic detour on the Thames Path, the footbridge ensures that regardless of mobility, everyone can access and enjoy the scenic route safely, creating a vantage point for river views and providing a pleasant experience for all. The Dukes Meadows Footbridge’s impact on the community is multifaceted. It unlocks leisure options for the wider area, encouraging recreation and sustainable modes of travel. As part of the Dukes Meadow Masterplan, the footbridge delivers public realm improvements that enhance the overall usability of the area. 

The project’s thorough consultation process, involving a wide range of stakeholders with varying requirements, ensured that the design addressed safety concerns, flooding issues, and the diverse needs of the community. The bridge has become more than a means of crossing; it’s a place to pause, appreciate the surroundings, and connect with the natural beauty of the area.

Judges’ Comments: “Dukes Meadow Footbridge is a successful marriage of architecture and engineering, that goes beyond its utilitarian purpose. It is a welcome addition to the urban landscape, that not only connects physical spaces but also fosters connections within the community.”

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Photography Credits & Captions

1. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Aerial Essex.jpg, Aerial Essex, Aerial view with Barnes and London beyond 2. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Aerial Essex.jpg, Aerial Essex, Night view of illuminated deck from above 3. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpg, Simon Kennedy, View from the existing bridge 4. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpeg, Simon Kennedy, The articulated truss is related to the bridge above 5. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpeg, Simon Kennedy, The western approach span hugs the shoreline 6. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpeg, Simon Kennedy, The main span creates a new river experience 7. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpeg, Simon Kennedy, The view through Dukes Hollow of the bridge with Barnes beyond 8. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpeg, Simon Kennedy, Users gathering on the widened belvedere corners 9. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpg, Simon Kennedy, The structure winds its way up to the existing Thames Path 10. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpg, Simon Kennedy, The undulating form draws users over the river 11. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpg, Simon Kennedy, The expressed structure casts strong shadows across the deck 12. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpg, Simon Kennedy, The faceted struts shine in the low sun 13. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Aerial Essex.jpg, Aerial Essex, The modestly illuminated path skirts around a nature reserve 14. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Aerial Essex.jpg, Aerial Essex, Aerial view highlighting connectivity 15. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpeg, Simon Kennedy, The evenly lit deck widens at the corners to encouraging lingering 16. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpeg, Simon Kennedy, Materials and details are key to the experience 17. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Aerial Essex.jpg, Aerial Essex, Deck lighting intentionally shines away from the nature reserve but not into the river 18. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpeg, Simon Kennedy, The striking silhouette at night 19. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpeg, Simon Kennedy, Users entering the bridge from the north 20. Dukes Meadow Footbridge Simon Kennedy.jpeg, Simon Kennedy, The bridge experience changes with the tide and time of day

Overall Result

Award

Application Type

CTA

Primary Use Class

Sui Generis

Credits

Architect

Moxon Architects Ltd

Client

London Borough of Hounslow

Structural Engineer

COWI

Main Contractor

Knights Brown Construction

Services Engineer

BWE Electrical Contractors