Is a New Bridge a Brilliant Idea

Or the destruction of a beautiful view?

BrentfordTV have gathered together supporters and a few dissenters to make a video discussing the pros and cons of a foot and cycle bridge across to Kew.

Leader of Hounslow Council, Cllr Steve Curran "I think it's a great idea. If we had the money we would support it".

Local resident Peter Hughes is strongly against the bridge, commenting that "this is one of the most beautiful views in London with a green vista uninterrupted by bridges". He wasn't alone.

Michael Freude, Acanthus Architects said that there could be space for a cafe underneath which helps pay for the upkeep.

The project group plans to crowd fund this year to raise initial £150k to fund setting up a Community Interest Company. This CIC would then move the project forward taking a few years to develop the bridge and raise the money to deliver a bridge in 2020.

Cost expectations are £7.5 million to design and build with £2.5m for ongoing maintenance. There is no expectation of any public funding for this from Hounslow Council. Funding would be raised privately.

The bridge should be fairly low and light to fit into the landscape.

Proposed location (in orange) at foot of Ferry Lane

There is a Facebook page with more photos or you can join the discussion on the forum.

Compare two different design iterations:

April 9, 2017