Construction search begins for winning Olympic Park footbridge designs

The contract is the latest package to go out to tender in the ODA’s Structures, Bridges and Highways programme and covers the construction of the Central Park footbridge in the south of the Olympic Park on the central pedestrian concourse. The bridge will span approximately 30m over the River Lea at a focal point between the Olympic Stadium, Aquatics Centre and Basketball Arena.

The design of the footbridge was put out to competition in May and last month Irish based firm Heneghan Peng Architects with Adams Kara Taylor architects were announced as the design competition winners. Heneghan Peng’s concept designs outlined a single bridge structure in Games time that is transformed in legacy to leave two footbridges linked by a central blade-like walkway offering views over the river, and links between the river tow paths and the upper concourse in the Olympic Park.

ODA Director of Infrastructure and Utilities Simon Wright said: 'With stunning designs for the Central Park footbridge unveiled it is essential that we bring on board a world-class company to construct this key piece of infrastructure. This contract is an opportunity for construction companies to deliver a striking structure in the heart of the Olympic Park which meets Games-time needs but which also leaves behind an important focal point in the Olympic Park for future generations to enjoy.'

Based on Heneghan Peng’s designs, the scope of the contract put out to tender includes the construction of two permanent footbridges connected by a permanent diagonal footbridge spanning over Carpenters Lock. The contract scope also includes the construction of temporary sections between the two permanent footbridges to provide a single bridge structure able to accommodate Games time spectators.

The planning and design of the bridge will integrate both Games and legacy use. During the Games the bridge will have a total width of around 60 metres to accommodate increased spectator numbers. After the Games temporary sections of bridge will be removed leaving two narrower bridges that span either side of Carpenters Lock, a unique 1930’s historic structure on the River Lea Waterway.

The Central Park footbridge construction contract is expected to be awarded in late 2008 with work due to start on site in 2009.

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Notes to Editors:

1. Images of Heneghan Peng’s winning footbridge designs in Games and legacy modes are available from the ODA press office on request

2. More than 30 bridges, temporary and permanent, will be built in and around the Olympic Park in total

For further information please contact the Olympic Delivery Authority Press Office on +44 (0)203 2012 700

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