MoederscheimMoonen Architects Wins Tender for Widening of Old IJssel Bridge in Zutphen - Bridge Zutphen Project

MoederscheimMoonen Architects Wins Tender for Widening of Old IJssel Bridge in Zutphen

MoederscheimMoonen Architects in consortium with APcon BV has won the tender for the widening of the Oude IJsselbrug in Zutphen, Netherlands. The project also involves major maintenance and repairs on the structure. The bridge needs to be widened to provide a better and higher-quality zone for pedestrians and cyclists. The project is in line with the general quality impulse that the Municipality of Zutphen has envisioned for the area with its ‘River in the City’ programme.

A New Page in the History and Future of the Town

The Oude IJsselbrug has a rich past as the current bridge is the seventh to be built at this site. MoederscheimMoonen has mainly interpreted the proposed design as a new page in the history and future of the town. A bridge that visibly and tangibly symbolises the next step in the bridging of the River IJssel – with the rediscovery of the nearby water as a key motif.

Comfort and Quality for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Architect Erik Moederscheim said that the main concept underlying the design was a combination of comfort and tangible quality for pedestrians and cyclists experiencing the bridge up close, and a strong and recognisable identity for viewers experiencing it from a distance. The widened surface for pedestrians and cyclists will gain a generous curb that gives users the feeling of crossing an entirely new bridge. In addition, the new curb raises the bridge’s visibility from a distance.

Special Landings for Travellers

The concept reserves a special role for the landings on both staircases leading up to the bridge deck. These landings have been designed with a keen awareness of their potential experience value and have been elaborated into unique areas where travellers can pause for a moment. To reflect on the city’s characteristic skyline, for example; to take in the nearby water; or to decide to continue your journey via the flood-meadow. The attached artist’s impressions give a basic idea of the design proposal. Work on the widening of the Oude IJsselbrug and major repairs and maintenance work will start in mid-2017.

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