Press coverage

A model of the Bridge of Reeds – destined to be a major landmark for the East of England - has been selected for inclusion in the Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition 2006, which runs from 12 June to 20 August 2006. 

Designed by LDA Design, the Bridge of Reeds is a dramatic suspension bridge comprising 3 steel reed-like masts standing 50 metres high. It is the main focus of a wider project – ‘Bridge of Reeds: Gateway to the Countryside’ – one of four that received funding for feasibility studies from the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) following its ‘landmark east international ideas competition’. 

‘Bridge of Reeds: Gateway to the Countryside’ aims to connect Cambridgeshire via the bridge to the National Trust’s vision for thousands of hectares of new fenland at Wicken Fen. The project would result in a unique leisure and education opportunity for residents and visitors alike, offering 15km of footpaths, cycle routes and bridleways and an important ecological reserve for the whole region.

The feasibility study found the project to be deliverable and the team comprising the National Trust, the Greater Cambridge Partnership, Marshall of Cambridge and Sustrans, is now working towards making it a physical reality.

The Royal Academy’s prestigious Summer Exhibition  is the world’s largest open submission contemporary art exhibition, with a tradition of showcasing work by unknown and emerging artists alongside that of more established names.

David Marlow, Chief Executive of EEDA said:

“We are delighted that the innovative design of the Bridge of Reeds has been recognised. It is the key to unlocking this exciting project which has the potential to be a true landmark – something to really put the East of England on the map, whilst providing new access to acres of open countryside, a stone’s throw from Cambridge.”

Philip Broadbent Yale, the National Trust’s Area Manager for Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire said:

“This is great news and comes at a good time for us as we are actively seeking to raise the necessary funding to deliver the project.  We were thrilled with the design for the bridge and it is a real bonus to have its credentials reinforced by the Royal Academy. “

Sara Mark, LDA Design said:

“I wanted the bridge to be a piece of sculpture that celebrates the natural environment; the wide skies, flocks of birds and reed beds – hence, the design is inspired by the shapes of wind-blown reeds.  I hope it will become something that everyone will recognise as special to the region and take to their hearts.”

The team has consulted with a range of groups and individuals over recent months and feedback indicates strong backing for the project with 77% of respondents saying they support the project. Key benefits were identified as the design and creation of a landmark, the notion encouraging biodiversity and access to an area promoting walking and cycling.  

For more information go to www.bridgeofreeds.org.uk or www.landmarkeast.org.uk

Further information:
Lizzie Ashley – landmark east Project Coordinator, EEDA
Tel: 01223 484567