Aerial view of a modern bridge with a distinctive angled support over a calm body of water at night. The bridge is illuminated, highlighting its sleek design against the dark water and surrounding area.

Thames East Bridge

London, England

2015

Client Transport for London

Road & Rail

Addressing the famous lack of river crossings in East London this proposal is for a series of opening bridges spanning the Thames between London Bridge and the Dartford Crossing. Where the Thames Gateway Bridge would have created a single high capacity and high clearance fixed connection across the river - addressing the strategic need for a link - this proposal instead posits that a number of smaller opening crossings could be formed, joining roads north and south in a more opportunistic manner and at a similar frequency to that found in Central London.

A simplified map highlighting a river flowing through a region, represented by a thin blue line. The river branches out towards a larger water body on the right, with minimal surrounding geographical details.

In order to maintain access for shipping a series of swing bridges are proposed where the channel width has been determined by the existing constraint at the Thames Barrier. The opening main span would be cable stayed, with a counterweight situated where the pylons meet, well behind the pivot line. The structure would therefore be balanced such that the centre of gravity in the free [open] position was located on the same vertical axis as the rotational bearing.

3D rendered map showing a city divided by a wide river, with bridges connecting both sides. Buildings and streets are depicted in light colors, and the layout highlights urban planning along the waterfront.

3D rendered map showing a river curving through a city with buildings, roads, and bridges on both sides. The landscape is simplified with pale colors and minimal detail, emphasizing the urban layout.

The approach spans would be simple viaducts, the vertical clearance of which would be established to provide enough air draft at Mean High Water for barges, leisure and tourist vessels to pass unimpeded. Alternatively it would be possible for some crossings to have multiple opening spans connected by viaduct – to facilitate separate east/west shipping channels where the river is widest and water traffic greatest.