The bridge was created over the River Wensum to improve pedestrian access to the city centre and railway station and to connect the site to the city’s cycle routes.

The curved bridge was conceived by Peter Jarrold, former chairman of Jarrold & Sons, more than 20 years ago. Ramboll was appointed by Jarrold (St James) to provide multidisciplinary services on the project.

The primary design concept was for a bridge that traced a smooth uninterrupted arc over the water. It is designed to appear to float over the site with little visible means of support.

The bridge has a length of 80m and sits 2.9m above the water level to allow river traffic to pass. The main deck was designed for fabrication off site and was craned into position minimising disruption to the river banks and traffic. Long approach ramps provide access for cycles and wheelchairs.

Ramboll undertook a full ecological programme to protect wildlife. This included protecting fish spawning grounds and providing bat roosts as well as a staged process for the removal of invasive species.

 “I dreamt of a simple wooden footbridge joining Norwich to Mousehold Heath, a historic area on the far side of the City. This bridge is a glorious addition to the many Norwich bridges constructed over the years. It is a sophisticated construction in wood and rusted steel with a very pleasing shape in the form of a J,”  said Jarrold.