Improving connectivity along the Thames Path

Dukes Meadows Footbridge

London, England

2017 — 2022

Client London Borough of Hounslow

Foot & Cycle

Designed to rejuvenate a previously disconnected stretch of the Thames Path, Dukes Meadows Footbridge links two sections, improving accessibility, safety and pedestrian flow.

Running beneath the Grade II listed Barnes Bridge, the refined design, developed in collaboration with COWI, references the form of this landmark structure without competing for attention. The meandering alignment of the bridge’s ‘half through’ trusses considers views to and from the river and into the adjacent nature reserve. Four slender spans touch down gently on the shoreline via discrete piers, providing a minimal footprint within the tidal zone.

Two people walking dogs on a modern metal footbridge above a river with a rocky shoreline. One person is on the left with a small dog and another on the right with a larger dog, both enjoying a sunny day.

A modern pedestrian bridge with a geometric metal railing crosses over a river. Behind it, a large steel truss bridge arches across the water. In the background, residential buildings and a clear sky are visible.

People with dogs standing on a riverside walkway next to a bridge, with overcast skies and sunlight peeking through clouds. A row of buildings is visible across the river.

The low carbon footbridge features robust finishes in stainless steel and aluminium to reduce maintenance requirements and withstand potential flooding. Innovation in material specification and construction achieved a 30% cut in overall carbon, with parts of the bridge prefabricated downriver in Tilbury, and lowered into place via the outgoing tide. Thelighting is designed to protect the fragile ecosystem within Dukes Hollow, one of London’s final remaining natural tidal habitats.

‘A testament to thoughtful design and sustainable engineering solutions.’

RIBA Journal

Underneath a bridge, a walkway curves alongside a shimmering river reflecting the setting sun. In the distance, buildings line the opposite shore, silhouetted against a partially cloudy sky.

Construction workers in orange safety gear assemble a large metal structure on a barge in a body of water. A tugboat is nearby. The scene is set during the day and the workers appear focused on the task.

A partially constructed bridge extends over a river, surrounded by greenery. In the background, a row of white buildings lines the opposite bank.

As one of the Mayor of London’s Liveable Neighbourhoods, the footbridge helps the Borough of Hounslow’s drive to improve infrastructure, safety and leisure opportunities. Offering an uninterrupted route along the Thames it is accessible for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs, while its landscaped landings connect sports grounds and rowing clubs.

‘The result is faceted and intriguing, its irregularity driven by the imaginative response to circumstance.’

Rowan Moore, The Observer