Salford Meadows Bridge 

In 2014 the RIBA launched an international design competition to design a new pedestrian bridge. In conceptualizing the bridge aesthetics, we looked to the history of the site and felt a design to reflect the importance of the textile industry would be an interesting paradigm. The idea of the ‘rotated spool arms’ which sweep from the vertical ‘marker’ position at the bridge landings to the horizontal line is derived from the motion and shapes associated with textile mill machinery. The concept was to develop a form that provided a landmark emphasis to both street and park but paid due respect to the river and user. The linking ‘threads’ across the river is translated in the five main cables which flow through the spool arms and also represent the five local settlements that benefited from the textile industry during the industrial revolution.

Once on the bridge, users will be able to experience the visually dynamic form, the sculptural presence of the ‘spool’ structure brings a distinctive new identity to the location.

The bridge will be illuminated at night to highlight the sculptural motion of the spools. Outward facing luminaires accentuate the sweeping curves, while another set of lights will illuminate the walkway. The form is designed to be recognisable by day and night, providing a positive gateway to both park and city.