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.”