A new bridge for Copenhagen harbour

The winner in an international design competition held by Copenhagen City Council during 2009, this elegant but subtly understated bridge has an opening span of 55m, a total length of 240m and a 7m wide typical deck. It is the key component of a scheme which includes two further small bridges over adjacent canals and improves pedestrian and cycle traffic links between the heart of the city and the Opera House.

The bridge is at a focal point in the city centre, and has a low profile and transparency to avoid obstructing important views across and along the harbour. The central opening part has a unique sliding mechanism, rolling back between the two fixed approaches, one each for cyclists and pedestrians. This unique operation will create an experience which is expected to become a popular city attraction as well as an important new transport corridor for cyclists and pedestrians.

The operating mechanism minimises the energy required to open and close the bridge. Furthermore, the bridge does not lift or swing, thus minimising the often problematic wind load effects in the open position. The design of the steel box girders is rather innovative and involves a complex and constantly changing geometry.

This paper describes the conception and evolution of the design, and in particular how the integration of architectural ideals and engineering requirements produces a successful solution in an important and sensitive urban context.

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