Bridge over the River Aire

The new footbridge for the Climate Innovation District is on the old Low Fold Mill site,  located over the River Aire in Leeds.

The bridge design is a collaborative exploration by GAGARIN and DP Squared and creates a simple yet visually fascinating river crossing for pedestrians either on foot, by bike, wheelchair or boat; connecting developments to the left and right bank, the tow path, the wider area of the River Aire and the city centre beyond.

The 50 metre long bridge is formed in a series of profiled corten steel slats which appear to fold and crank across its length. Although we have designed the bridge with only 16 different profiles, variances in spacing and orientation distinctively create a sense of the form stretching along its span. The resulting concertina-like quality brings sculptural interest and character for people crossing over or below the bridge and  the experience of the structure from a distance is one of lightness and simplicity.

The bridge now in place, skilfully navigates significant constraints and technical demands of this challenging site whilst providing both the North and South Bank of the city with a high-quality piece of placemaking that is both beautiful and contextual.