Asif Khan has designed a 170-metre ribbon-like boardwalk bridge over Canada Dock, linking key local sites and enhancing public access to restored wetlands. The structure, built from sustainable Cumaru timber, reflects the area’s timber trade history and encourages ecological interaction, forming part of a larger urban development.
Asif Khan has unveiled a sinuous boardwalk bridge at Canada Dock, south London, designed to highlight the area’s timber trade heritage. Spanning 170 metres, this pedestrian bridge links the CZWG-designed library with the Surrey Quays shopping centre while encouraging public interaction with a restored wetland area beneath. Khan’s design features over 400 cantilevered timber fins, inspired by the historical planks of 19th-century dock workers, creating a dynamic undulating form above the water. The bridge’s durable red Cumaru wood, chosen for its sustainability and historical significance, serves as a striking visual statement, symbolising Canada’s influence on London’s timber history.
The Canada Dock development is part of a larger urban regeneration project overseen by British Land and AustralianSuper since 2020. Historically, the site was a significant working dock until its closure in the 1970s. This transition offers a chance to revive local wildlife and promote community interactions with nature and history. The overall plan aims to establish a bustling new urban hub, encompassing residential buildings, retail, leisure, and public amenities, further enhancing the region’s accessibility and ecological integrity.
Asif Khan’s boardwalk at Canada Dock not only serves as an important transport link but also revitalises the area’s ecological footprint and historical narrative. This innovative structure invites the public to connect with both nature and the rich timber trade heritage of London, making a profound impact on the community and environment alike.
Original Source: www.dezeen.com