Architect Foster + Partners have been chosen to design the new Upper Orwell Crossing bridge in Ipswich.
The firm won the competition, managed by RIBA on behalf of the Suffolk County Council, for the design of three waterfront bridges, part of overall plans by the council to create new routes through the area and help relieve congestion.
The main design includes a striking major road bridge with separate offset pedestrian walkways supported on the same branching bridge piers.
This arching structure spans the Orwell to the south of the Wet Dock Island, connecting the east and west banks.
The third crossing point is an improved pedestrian crossing over the Prince Philip Lock, which would connect the east bank to the Wet Dock Island.
Together the three crossings will cost around £100m to construct and work is expected to begin in 2019.
The judging panel stated they were impressed by the quality of the overall approach and thinking, including the initial design concepts presented for the project’s three crossings.
The approaches were considered to have the potential to enhance Ipswich’s waterfront, as well as acting as a catalyst for regeneration of the wider harbour area.
Spencer de Grey, head of design, Foster + Partners, said: “Ipswich holds a special place in our hearts. The Willis Faber Building was a landmark project for the practice, and we are delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to the town once more.
“The design of the bridges focuses on enhancing the experience of crossing the Orwell River, increasing interconnectivity and reducing congestion in the town centre. The project also offers the opportunity to consider the design of the bridges in a wider urban context, creating new promenades and public spaces between the river front, inner harbour and island.”
