A new piece of architecture for the Olympic Park was unveiled as the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) announced the completion of a key footbridge that spans over the River Lea, at a focal point between the Olympic Stadium and the Aquatics Centre.

A design competition was held in 2007 to select an emerging architectural and engineering practice to create a key piece of architecture in the centre of the Park. Dublin-based Heneghan Peng Architects, with Adams Kara Taylor Engineers, were selected as the winning team. The construction of their winning bridge design has now been completed and features both permanent and temporary elements to integrate Games-time and legacy use.

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The bridge features two permanent footbridges linked by a central blade-like walkway, creating a 'Z' shape, clad in mirror-finish stainless steel. For Games-time, a multi-coloured temporary deck has been placed between the permanent spans of the bridge to increase the width, allowing it to carry increased spectator numbers. The temporary Games-time bridge deck has been covered with a multi-coloured rubber surface, inspired by the London 2012 brand colours.

ODA Director of Infrastructure and Utilities, Simon Wright said: "With the main Olympic Park venues in place we are now seeing the completion of crucial new infrastructure to help stitch the site together and create an open and accessible new park for London. The Central Park bridge creates a new focal point in the Olympic Park for spectators and future generations to enjoy."

(CD)