Feasibility study

The focus of Bridge of Reeds - Gateway to the Countryside is the bridge; a dramatic sculpture inspired by the wind blown reeds and flights of birds of the East of England landscape. Located on the A14 pan-European highway, the bridge will be linked by the Wicken Drove, a new network of cycle and footpaths to the wonderful landscapes of the region. The project may also include a sustainable visitor centre.

The client team for the project is the National Trust, the Greater Cambridge Partnership, Marshall of Cambridge and Sustrans.

The main topics investigated as part of the feasibility study are as follows:  

• The focus of the project is the 'Bridge of Reeds', a dramatic new landmark for the East of England inspired by the locally distinctive motif of wind-bent reeds and flocks of birds. The preferred option for the location for the bridge is over the A14, on the line of a disused railway, north of Fen Ditton, to the east of Cambridge.
  
  
• The route of the 'Wicken Drove' cycle and footpath has been mapped out in consultation with Sustrans and Cambridgeshire County Council. This will connect the Bridge of Reeds to Wicken Fen via Anglesey Abbey, making use of the existing network of Public Rights of Way, and linking to the Wicken Ring cycle routes. Some additional land acquisition will be necessary to connect the bridge to these routes and the landowners have been approached. The initial route connects Cambridge, via the Bridge of Reeds, into the existing public rights of way to the north of the A14, leading onto Horningsea Road.
  
  
• Several locations for the possible future 'Gate' Visitor Centre have been identified. The preferred location is in the vicinity of the existing High Ditch Road railway bridge. The building will incorporate the latest sustainability principles, in keeping with the aims of the project team and of EEDA.
  
  
• The project aims to start construction of the bridge after an initial fund-raising and design stage. It is proposed to carry out the project in three separately viable and distinct phases.

To read the feasibility study executive summary, click here.