The Scale Lane Bridge is an innovative pedestrian swing bridge located in the city of Hull, England, that offers pedestrians the unique experience of riding on the bridge while it’s still moving. Designed by London architects McDowell+Benedetti, Scale Lane Bridge features a rotating mechanism so it can swing open to make room for passing boats. The distinctive form of the 57m bridge recalls Hull’s maritime heritage. It creates a series of places for people to enjoy the riverscape, providing a choice of generous routes, varied vantage points and places to sit as well as a cafe/restaurant within the bridge.
The bridge’s sweeping form creates a choice of two curving pedestrian routes – one gently sloping, the other stepped. The circular geometry of the bridge’s hub means the walkway is always in contact with the river’s west bank as it swings open, allowing people to walk on and off as it moves. The structure can carry up to 1,000 people while opening and up to 4,000 people when closed. The use of steel has allowed the design to incorporate the sweeping curves developed by the architect, while retaining the inherent strength of the steel plate required within the structural design.
“The black steel bridge has a distinctive robust character and curving form, making it a memorable landmark that is unique to Hull and its industrial and maritime heritage,” said London architects McDowell+Benedetti, who were behind the bridge’s design. The spine of the bridge arches up and over the river, allowing enough room for smaller boats to pass under without needing to operate the bridge, and rotates using an electrical drive mechanism to open the route to river traffic when required.
Image Credit: McDowell+Benedetti
