Aecom has designed a bridge over the Grand Union Canal in Alperton, near Wembley, as part of a 拢5m regeneration plan.
The bridge will connect pedestrians and cyclists in the Grand Union development to the towpath on the southwestern side of the canal, the Abbey Estate and Park Royal employment hub.
The project has now been put out for public consultation by Brent Council.
The bridge has a curving structure with slender steel columns that are designed to blend with surrounding tree trunks and vegetation. The four-metre-wide deck is flanked by steel girders and topped with 1.5-metre-high repeating steel fins.
Made from low-maintenance weathering steel, the bridge will deliberately look rusty 聽in recognition of the site鈥檚 industrial past. A 鈥榟alf-through鈥� deck design enables efficient structural performance with minimum bridge depth, reducing ramp lengths to enhance accessibility for users and minimise environmental impact.
Aecom architecture director Erik Behrens said: 鈥淲e wanted to design a bridge that embraces its distinct location and blends fluidly into its surroundings. One that would offer a sculptural yet natural experience that takes people on a journey through habitat and wildlife spaces, with tree canopy views and vistas across the Grand Union Canal as the bridge opens up over the water. The raw finish of the weathering steel adds authenticity and depth to this modern design, commemorating the site鈥檚 industrial past while creating a light and kinetic feel.鈥�
Project manager Jack Summerhayes added: 鈥淪tructurally, the 'half-through' deck provides an efficient solution that reduces bridge depth and ramp lengths, making it more accessible for all users while minimising impact on the habitat. Designing within such a constrained and environmentally sensitive site brings unique challenges, but also opportunities to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions that respect the area's natural and historical features.
鈥淥ur integrated team is drawing on expertise across engineering, architecture, landscape and ecology to ensure the final design is not only functional and durable, but also enhances the local environment and supports active travel for years to come. With the exception of the foundations, all components will be fabricated offsite and lifted into place, ensuring a swift installation with minimal disruption to the environment and canal operations.鈥�
The work is being delivered through Perfect Circle, a partnership between Aecom, Pick Everard, Gleeds and via the Scape consultancy framework.
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