A proposed bridge between Chelsea Harbour and Battersea is set to get planning permission today. The cycling and pedestrian link would be known as the Diamond Jubilee Footbridge.
The triple-arched steel span, reminiscent of a gull in flight, is designed by Chris Medland of local firm One-World Design. It will run alongside the current Battersea rail bridge in a manner not unlike the pedestrian bridges at Charing Cross.
Planners say the bridge will be funded entirely from private money — laudable if true, but we all remember how the cable car had to be bailed out from the public purse after making similar claims. It's not yet known if financial backers are already in place, but those stumping up the money would get sponsor's naming rights and/or 'branded decking'.
Wandsworth Council has already approved plans on the southern side, with Hammersmith and Fulham council set to rubber-stamp the northern parts today. Construction could begin at the end of next year, if funding is forthcoming.
The plans follow the recent announcement of a Garden Bridge in central London, designed by Thomas Heatherwick and also touted as a privately funded venture. Such projects undoubtedly have their merits, but the biggest need is for a crossing to the east of London. Results of a consultation were published earlier this year, but we still await news of any action.
Images by One-World Design.
