Pedestrian and cycle bridge in Upminster, UK

EcoSpan is a design for a low-carbon pedestrian bridge as part of the Lower Thames Crossing (LTC). The project was selected as a finalist in the National Highways competition and ranked among the top five entries out of over 60 international submissions.

Working closely with the architectural team, we developed a multi-span bridge system with a particular focus on timber engineering and reduced embodied carbon. The aim was to demonstrate the potential of modern timber structures and combine them with durable, tried-and-tested materials.

The structure is based on large-format glulam beams spanning 30 m and 40 m, as well as 15 m-long approach spans. The ramp runs in a spiral, also supported by a glulam structure. A specially developed cross-section with a cantilevered, water-carrying deck structure permanently protects the timber components from moisture and enables a service life of over 100 years.

The design combines advanced timber construction technologies with weather-resistant steel and prestressed natural stone elements. A high degree of prefabrication, standardised component lengths and material-efficient structural concepts result in a sustainable, low-maintenance bridge structure that blends sensitively into the surrounding landscape.