Member Article

A new bridge over Brentford’s historic waters

The latest phase of the award-winning residential scheme, Brentford Lock West, has seen the exciting opening of a major new bridge for pedestrians and cyclists over the Grand Union Canal. 
 
A major piece of engineering, some 80 metres long and weighing 90 tonnes, the new bridge connects the two banks of the canal substantially reducing walking time to Brentford train station while sustainably connecting the community to Robin Grove Park & playground.  
 
Better physical connectivity is central to the vision and masterplan for the Brentford Lock West neighbourhood, which is being delivered by Waterside Places, a joint venture between Muse and Canal & River Trust. Waterside Places has been working in partnership with London Borough of Hounslow and on construction delivery, with McAleer & Rushe. The scheme has a major focus on making it easier for people of all ages, from children using the playground, dog walkers, cyclists and commuters, to access sustainable transportation and the wider borough. 
 
To date the project has created delivered 307 one, two, three and four-bed apartments and townhouses plus commercial space in a neighbourhood street setting carefully designed to maximise the water frontage. The intention is to bring forward in excess of 450 additional homes on remaining land. 
 
On behalf of Waterside Places, Phillip Day, Project Director at Muse, said: “Completion of the new bridge is a hugely symbolic moment and everyone on the team is delighted to have reached this milestone. Brentford Lock West is a complex project that has seen us successfully remediate a large brownfield site and enable the creation of a new neighbourhood. We feel the scheme is an exemplar of what can be achieved around Britain’s urban waterways, and it’s already been recognised as such, with four RIBA awards. The bridge itself is a safe and secure link, well-lit with CCTV cameras, and will make a very positive difference for local residents.” 
 
Jonathan O’Neill, Senior Director at McAleer & Rushe, said: “The opening of this significant infrastructure upgrade is a proud moment for our team at McAleer & Rushe. The installation of the 80-metre bridge, alongside a reinforced canal flood defence wall, showcases our engineering excellence. This project has not only enhanced connectivity within the borough but has also been pivotal in preparing the site for the further development of new homes. 
 
Our team has demonstrated exceptional technical capability and management, overcoming various environmental challenges such as a significant remediation operation, to deliver a sustainable and safe solution. It is this dedication to best practice that has also been commended with multiple Green Apple Awards for the tangible impact of our sustainability efforts, which have been integral to this project from the outset.” 

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by John Robson .