Whatman's Field Downstream Bridge, Maidstone
2001
In May 1998 a team of Architects and Engineers were appointed to assist in the concept and design for a Millennium Project at Maidstone River Park.
The concept was to open up Whatman’s Field, a new public park, with the construction of two new foot/cycle bridges spanning the River Medway. By allowing easy access to Whatman’s Field the public are able to take advantage of new nature trails and safe landscaped areas.
The upstream bridge, a cranked concrete stress ribbon, is complemented by a downstream steel bridge inspired more by ‘landscape’ art than bridge engineering aesthetics. Due to unconventional design this bright blue 75m long bridge has a very slender appearance.
Images courtesy of http://www.studio-bednarski.com/
Fact file
Client
Maidstone Borough Council
Architect
Studio Bednarski
Main Contractor
Lewin Fryer & Partners
Structural Engineer
Flint & Neill Partnership
Steelwork Contractor
Fairfield-Mabey
