A footbridge that connects Waitrose to the new Hall and Woodhouse pub at Wichelstowe was officially opened today.
The bridge, which measures 35m in length and weighs 28 tonnes, crosses the Wilts and Berks Canal and forms an important link between the Waitrose store and the pub.
Designed by artist Sebastien Boyesen, in partnership with civil engineers Peter Brett Associates, the bridge is adorned with an eye-catching work of art that was deemed perfect for the tranquil Canalside location.
The bridge design includes ornate laser cut steel panels interspersed with coloured resin which will reflect the sunlight during the day and be illuminated at night by feature lights set within the handrail.
Councillor Gary Sumner, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, said: “I am delighted to see another piece of the Wichelstowe jigsaw slotted firmly into place.
“The Canalside development is really beginning to take shape and this footbridge, so beautifully designed by Sebastien, will act as a focal point that will make getting around the District Centre much easier.”
Work on the first phase of house building at Canalside, located adjacent to Waitrose and the new Deanery CE academy secondary school, is due to start next month.
The joint venture company is a 50:50 partnership between Swindon Borough Council and Barratt Developments PLC, which will create around 3,000 new homes at Wichelstowe.
