A new bridge providing access to an upcoming 1,000 home development on Chelmsford’s biggest brownfield site has officially opened.
Bow Bridge, forming the new Bow Bridge Road, spans 50m and links Wharf Road and Parkway across the River Chelmer, home to Chelmer Waterside housing development.
The bowstring-arch bridge was designed by engineers Buro Happold and built by contractor GRAHAM over 18 months using Corten steel to reflect the area’s industrial heritage.
The bridge provides access for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.
Andrew Henry, Contracts Director at GRAHAM, said: “We’re immensely proud to have successfully delivered this iconic bridge project for Chelmsford City Council.
“By focusing on efficient design and sustainable construction methods, we’ve created infrastructure that is both functional and visually striking and supports Chelmsford’s vision for urban regeneration while minimising environmental impact.”
Funding for the bridge was supplied by the Government’s Housing Infrastructure Fund alongside Section 106 funding from Taylor Wimpey – who are building homes on the site – as well as contributions from other developers involved in the project.
Councillors said the opening of the bridge marks a key milestone in the build-up to the waterside quarter’s redevelopment, with Taylor Wimpey having already completed more than 440 homes in the area ahead of the project’s next phase.
Cllr Stephen Robinson, Leader of Chelmsford City Council, said: “Today marks a substantial step forward in the regeneration of this important city centre site.
“Bow Bridge Road is a significant element of the infrastructure needed to unlock new areas of Chelmer Waterside, helping the council to deliver new homes and a better-connected community.
“Investment in infrastructure of this kind – in advance of development – supports the long-term growth and sustainability of new neighbourhoods like Chelmer Waterside and I want to thank the whole project team for helping us to accomplish this remarkable achievement.”
Cllr Lynne Foster, Deputy Leader of Chelmsford City Council, added: “This is an exciting opportunity to create a vibrant, new neighbourhood with a range of local facilities in an area that has been overlooked for many years.
“Chelmsford needs new homes and I’m delighted the completion of Bow Bridge Road will allow us to push ahead with the housing-led development planned for this area.”
The bridge has already been shortlisted for national silverware in the Road Bridge Project of the Year category at the New Civil Engineers Bridges Awards.
Judges said the bridge ‘promotes active travel while seamlessly integrating flood solutions with aesthetic appeal’.