ODA announces shortlist for footbridge design competition

The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) has announced the shortlist in a design competition for a major footbridge in the centre of the Olympic Park.

The six shortlisted teams are:

• McDowell + Benedetti, Jane Wernick Associates, Craft Pegg and Sutton Vane Associates
• Hparc architects and Adams Kara Taylor Engineers
• Ron Arad Associated, Buro Happold and Landscape Architects - BBUK Studio
• Softroom and Eckersley O'Callaghan
• Future Systems and Adams Kara Taylor

The six were narrowed down from 46 entrants.

ODA director of infrastructure and utilities Simon Wright said: “Having such a competent shortlist will ensure that we continue to aim for the highest standards of design excellence, not just for the key venues, but throughout the entire site.

After 2012, the structure will feature two permanent separate spans over the River Lea, each 6.5m wide. During the Games, a temporary bridge around 41m wide will be constructed in between and joined onto the 2 permanent spans to create a single 54m wide structure able to accommodate increased spectator numbers.

The shortlisted teams’ submissions will be assessed in September by a design jury.