Suchdol Bridge

Minimising the number of locations the bridge touches the river valley, and maintaining a low-level structure above the road deck led us to this award winning extradosed solution. The key elements of this structure have been refined and simplified visually; a single, multi-celled concrete box supports a slim deck that tapers to a thin, visually lightweight deck edge describing a clean line across the valley. Two slender piers carry the deck structure, splitting in elevation towards the top to align with the masts that support a single plane of cables in the middle of the bridge.

A pair of enclosed walkways are mounted beneath the deck cantilevers providing a route for pedestrians and cyclists separated completely from the carriageway above. The shaped boomerang supports and high-quality stainless-steel mesh infill create a defined volume that provides a safe and peaceful route across the river valley, seating located at mid-span and the piers encourages users to pause and enjoy the spectacular views.

The abutments seamlessly integrate accessible routes for pedestrians and cyclists and maintenance access to the abutment. The abutments are constructed from reinforced earth and gabion walls where possible to reduce the amount of concrete used. Planting of the earth slopes and use of local stone in the gabions allow the abutments to sit comfortably within the natural landscape. The bridge inspection gantries are housed in the abutments keeping them protected and concealed from view when not in use.