The construction of the River Suir Sustainable Transport Bridge in Waterford, Ireland, has achieved a significant milestone with the installation of the parts of the structure bridge.
The 207 m long pedestrian and cycle Bridge is part of the further infrastructure project by Waterford North Quays, the largest urban regeneration initiative in Ireland worth € 200 million (€ 171 million).
The bridge was designed by Knight Architects in cooperation with the engineering companies Roughan & O'Donovan and Hardesty & Hanover (H&H) and built by BAM and is to be open to the public in 2026. It will offer an important active travel route about the River Suir link from Waterford's Historic Center with the strategic development zone (SDZ) on the Quays North Quays.
Photo credits: Waterford City and County Council / Peter Grogan
The development of the SDZ is expected that the investments of the private sector, including new developments for residential, commercial, hospitality and public spatial developments, are expected. The bridge is a key component in the development of this regeneration potential by improving connectivity and accessibility.
The bridge reflects Waterford's maritime story and glassware and has a steel superstructure with subtle curves and angular facets inspired by the renowned crystal of the city. The two -leaved base breakdown integrated in the deck can continue the river traffic unhindered. The sightseeing platforms over the pillars offer resting points and views over the river and the aspiring bank promenade.
The bridge develops for several sustainable means of transport and will accommodate pedestrians and cyclists. It also forms a connection in urban green roads that Waterford connects to Dungarvan and New Ross. It is important that the structure brings a future electrical shuttle bus service between the north and south quays and emphasizes an obligation for transport options with low admission.
Photo credits: Waterford City and County Council / Peter Grogan
To add the bridge, a new urban square was developed at the South Plaza Landing location. This space comprises different surfaces in order to manage the users safely and intuitively, at the same time to activate the waterfront and integrate into the wider active mobility network from Waterford.
The project corresponds to national climate policy by promoting the modal emigration of private cars and contributing to reduced emissions and a sustainable urban environment.
Waterford City & County Council heads the program, while Knight Architects was involved throughout the design and delivery process and monitors the project from the first concept to ongoing construction phases.
Tom Osborne, director of Knight Architects, said: “This bridge connects far more than two sides of a river. It connects the past with the future and catalyzes the transformation of the Irish city, while sensitive to its historical cultural and urban context.
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